Extremely Dry Skin

Dry skin is medically referred to as xerosis cutis. Since this skin condition makes one vulnerable to many skin infections, one must take all possible precautions to tackle this skin condition soon. Though most of us complain about dryness of skin during the dry cold weather, one may end up having an extremely dry skin due to certain medical conditions or use of certain cosmetics.

What Causes Dry Skin

Environmental Conditions
This is one of the most common causes of dry skin. Weather plays a great role. Dry, cold weather can cause the skin to become extremely dry. Harsh weather conditions rob the skin off its moisture and cause an extremely dry, cracked and flaky skin. Though a hot bubble bath seems like a great idea during winters, but this protection against cold weather might actually leave your skin extremely dry. Central heating and air conditioning can also cause the skin to lose its moisture.

Harsh Soaps and Chemicals
You might not realize it but your perfumed soap might be playing the culprit. Presence of certain harsh chemicals in soaps and detergents can cause a lot of damage to the skin. You must also be careful while choosing cosmetic products. Swimming in a chlorinated pool frequently could also affect the skin. Skin's protective oils might be lost due to the strong action of chlorine.

Medical Reasons
Certain prescription drugs can also cause dry skin. Sometimes, taking prescription drugs like antihistamines and diuretics can leave your skin very dry. If you are suffering from any of the medical conditions like diabetes, eczema, hypothyroidism and psoriasis, you might experience dry skin. Eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis can cause dryness on hands and feet, so, if you have any of these diseases, you must see a dermatologist to tackle the problem.

Dietary Habits
Do you drink enough water? In case your intake of water is not enough, your skin might be dry due to dehydration. Certain nutritional deficiencies could also be playing the culprit. Excessive intake of alcohol or caffeine can also cause an extremely dry and flaky skin.

How to Treat Dry Skin

Moisturize Your Skin
You must provide nourishment to your skin by applying a good quality moisturizer. You must apply moisturizer at least twice. Make sure you moisturize your skin after taking bath in the morning and before you go to bed. You can also apply petroleum jelly. You can also follow certain home remedies. Apply olive oil or almond oil before you go to bed and wash it off with lukewarm water in the morning. Using aloe vera will also help. Another home remedy is to make a face pack with beaten yogurt, almond oil, rose water, olive oil and honey. Apply this face pack on the affected skin.

Protect Your Skin
Since harsh weather can cause a lot of damage to the skin, it would be advisable to provide protection to your skin. Moisturize your skin before you step out in the scorching sun or dry cold winds. Wear gloves when you wash the dishes. Don't use detergents that have harsh chemicals. When you go shopping for cosmetic products, make sure you buy good quality cosmetics. Avoid using hot water for bath. Hot water evaporates the skin's moisture and will worsen the problem of dry skin.

Improve Your Dietary Habits
If you have been facing this problem for a long period of time, you need to check out whether you are providing your body with the right nutrients or not. Are you taking a healthy and balanced diet? Is your intake of water sufficient? Dehydration, excessive intake of tea or coffee, vitamin deficiency can cause the skin to turn dry, so make sure you take a balanced diet and increase your intake of fluids.

Your skin is extremely important and you must take all possible steps to protect it. Pamper your skin and protect it from harsh weather. In case, your skin is very dry and extremely sensitive, consult a dermatologist.