What are the Causes of Dry Skin?

The search for the best moisturisers does not end whether it's the winter or summer season when you have dry skin. Dry skin is not just a winter thing caused by cold weather and indoor heaters. Sure, those play a part, but there is more to the story.

Don't become overly caught up in blaming the weather because other variables, such as a compromised skin barrier or a lack of omega fatty acids in our diets, may also be to blame for our skin's rough appearance. Sometimes the most frequent causes of dry skin can also result from your daily habits like not using the right face cream, or taking hot showers, or not drinking adequate water, and more. However, treating dry skin is not rocket science only if you know which products to use that are specific to your skin's needs. Without further delay, let's dive into the causes of dry skin.

What are the Causes of Dry Skin?

Following are some of the main causes of dry skin:

1. Age: When you age, your skin naturally tends to lose moisture to the surroundings more readily. This is a typical occurrence in the natural ageing process, which involves a number of skin-related alterations, such as reduced activity in sebaceous glands, fewer natural hydrators present in the skin, decreased capacity of skin's protecting lipids to regenerate moisture, decreased blood flow in the skin, and lesser production of skin sebum.

2. Health conditions: People who have previously had conditions like psoriasis or atopic dermatitis are more likely to experience dry skin in the future. This is because the skin's structure has changed, making it simpler for moisture to escape and raising the likelihood of dry skin.

3. Climate conditions: One of the prime reasons for dry skin is the weather of the surrounding area. People who reside in arid climates, such as the desert, for example, are more prone to dry skin since the atmosphere dries out the skin faster. Further, skin moisture tends to decline in winter due to the lower temperatures and humidity levels. This may also be related to the increased usage of heating, stoves, and fireplaces throughout the winter, all of which can cause skin to dry up.

4. Diet: Certain diets, particularly some fat-free diets, may result in a deficiency of essential fatty acids, which are necessary for maintaining the skin's moisture. Additionally, heavy drinking or high doses of certain medicines may also raise the risk of dry skin.

5. Lifestyle: Skin dryness causes can also be influenced by certain lifestyle factors. For instance, a swimmers skin may become dry due to the high chlorine content of some swimming pools. The use of various soaps, detergents, and shampoos can also contribute to skin drying, as can taking long or hot showers.

6. Occupation: It is more common for people to have dry skin who work in particular areas. Plumbers and hairdressers, for instance, routinely submerge their skin in water throughout the course of their shift, which can result in drier skin. The skin may become raw and rupture in extreme cases of this.

7. Ditching fruits: Essentially, our diet has a direct impact on the processes involved in skin drying. Our skin may feel parched if we do not eat enough fruits and veggies. That's because fruits provide a sumptuous dose of Vitamin C that is responsible for maintaining our skin's health. For instance, fruits high in vitamin C, such as kiwis, papayas, strawberries, mangoes, and others, aid in the production of collagen, which is necessary to keep our skin appearing hydrated, plump, and healthy.

8. Skipping SPF: SPF is a year-round essential because it prevents skin cancer and safeguards the DNA of your skin. But did you also know that UV rays can severely dehydrate your skin that is already prone to being dry, robbing it of moisture? For this reason, use a cream-based sunscreen as your final layer of skin care, along with moisturising elements like glycerin, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid to replenish moisture.

9. Using the wrong moisturiser: One of the main causes of dry skin on the face is over-moisturising. By applying a moisturising product with a thick viscosity, you may believe that you are helping your skin, but in reality, you are merely aggravating the problem. Face creams that are oily and thick can change the way that the skin naturally retains moisture and decrease its barrier function. The skin grows dependent on the moisturiser and is unable to nourish itself.

10. Genetics: Dry skin is heritable. Your ability to regulate moisture and produce sebum may be compromised due to your genetics, which can result in dry skin.

Tips for Dry Skin

Follow these tips to keep your skin nourished and comfortable:

1. Gentle cleansing: Opt for mild, fragrance-free cleansers like that of POND'S such as the POND'S Pimple Clear Face Wash, Clears Pimple in 3 Days. This face wash does not strip your skin of its natural oils. Ensure you rinse off your face with lukewarm water to avoid over-drying.

2. Regular moisturisation: Moisturise your skin daily with a rich, hydrating moisturiser. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides that help lock in moisture and strengthen your skin's barrier. For optimum results, you can pick the POND'S Light Moisturiser with Vitamin E + Glycerine to keep your skin properly hydrated.

3. Hydration from within: Not only a moisturiser will help keep your skin nourished, but a well-hydrated body also plays a key part in keeping your skin plump. Hence, stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day. Hydrated skin starts from the inside, so maintaining good hydration levels is essential for combating dryness.

4. Lukewarm baths: Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to further dryness. Thus, opt for lukewarm baths and showers and limit their duration to prevent excessive moisture loss.

5. Exfoliation caution: Excessive exfoliation can be another prime reason for skin dryness. So, avoid overdoing it and instead opt for gentle exfoliators that can help remove dead skin cells. Choose mild exfoliants like POND'S Bright Beauty Face Scrub. It contains the goodness of Vitamin B3 and E, which helps remove dirt and impurities, while also leaving your skin feeling soft and glowing.

6. Sun protection: Even dry skin requires defence against the sun's damaging rays. To protect your skin from UV deterioration, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. You can also choose from a wide range of products offered by POND'S such as POND'S Serum Boost Sunscreen Cream SPF 35.

7. Avoid irritants: Harsh skincare products, fragrances, and alcohol-based toners can irritate dry skin. Opt for products labeled as gentle, hydrating, or suitable for dry skin.

8. Pat dry, don't rub: After cleansing or bathing, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Rubbing can further aggravate dryness and cause irritation.

9. Consult a dermatologist: If your dry skin persists or becomes severely uncomfortable, consult a dermatologist. They can provide personalised recommendations and treatments to address your specific skin needs.

Taking care of dry skin is important for keeping it happy and healthy. Using gentle cleansers, moisturising regularly, and drinking enough water can help your skin feel better. Remember, being kind to your skin makes it happy.

FAQ

1. Which deficiency causes dry skin?

Deficits in essential fatty acids, especially omega-3 and omega-6, can be one of the prime reasons for dry skin. The moisture barrier of the skin is crucially maintained by these lipids.

2. Which vitamin is best for dry skin?

Vitamin E is often considered beneficial for dry skin. It acts as a key antioxidant, thereby helping to protect and nourish your skin's moisture barrier and promoting hydration. Further, it also aids in improving your skin's overall texture and appearance.

3. Does lack of vitamin D cause dry skin?

Yes! Vitamin D deficiency can lead to dry skin. Skin moisture and barrier function are both influenced by Vitamin D. Getting enough vitamin D from sunlight or supplements may aid in maintaining healthy skin.