Factors That May Be Contributing to Your Dry Skin

Dry skin can cause itching and discomfort, and it can affect the way others view you. You try your best to keep your skin healthy and moist, but no matter what kind of lotions you are using, your skin may still feel and appear dry. You may want to investigate the root causes.

The Climate

Your skin is exposed to the elements, so the climate where you live can have a significant effect on it. Those living in areas with cold winters will often experience seasonal skin dryness, especially on the face and hands. The cold is often accompanied by wind, which draws moisture away from the skin.

Living in a hot climate may make you sweat more, but that doesn’t necessarily lead to less dry skin. The sun’s UV rays can be very drying to your skin. Protect your skin by applying sunscreen with a moisturizer every day.

Your Water

It’s counterintuitive, but water can sometimes dry out your skin. There are a couple of reasons for this. After you get wet, for example after a dip in the pool, the water will naturally evaporate from your skin and take some of your body’s natural moisture with it. 

The other factor is the composition of your water. Hard water contains minerals such as iron and calcium, which can clog pores and slow down the natural moisturizing process. Installing a water softener can fix your hard water problems. The result may be softer, better moisturized skin.

Your Bathing Habits

Clean skin is healthy skin, but you may be inadvertently drying it out by bathing too often or using soaps that are too harsh. Some dermatologists recommend that you don’t need to bathe or shower every day if you haven’t done any strenuous activity. Certain kinds of soap, especially deodorizing soaps, can also dry out the skin.

The best time to use lotion is directly after bathing or showering while you are still a bit damp. Lotions and creams work by helping the body retain its natural moisture.

Dry skin can be irritating and lead to rough patches, scaly-appearing skin, and even cracks and bleeding, especially on the hands. To best care for your skin, you should try to understand what factors may be contributing to the dryness. Making a few changes could make a big difference in the way your skin looks and feels.

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