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According to Dr. Barney Kenet, dermatologist at Cornell Medical Center, dry skin (xerosis) is a common ailment that affects nearly 100 million Americans. Beneath the top protective layer of skin, a layer of lipids and fatty substances contribute to your skin's softness. Dry skin may first appear as flaky superficial patches, followed by redness, itching and pain. Knowing what causes dry skin may assist in finding a successful solution to the problem.
Air-drying
After washing your skin, nature can zap the surface moisture if you dry off without applying moisturizer. Dry climates are a leading cause of dry skin, especially during the winter months when your skin is subjected to hot, dry indoor air. To counteract the drying effect, slather on moisturizer or lotion while your skin is still damp. In addition, use a cool-air humidifier to put moisture back into heat-dried air.
Hot water
While steamy baths might feel wonderful, the hot water washes away your natural body oils, depleting your natural moisture. Opt for a shower instead of a hot bath and shorten your shower time to reduce the loss of body oils.
Soap
Soap, designed to remove sweat and grime, quickly removes beneficial oils as well. Use deodorant soaps and exfoliant scrubs sparingly and moisturizing immediately after toweling dry. Alternately, choose a gentle soap with no added fragrance. Ignore a soap's lathering effect. Soap need not lather in order to clean and added lathering agents may irritate sensitive skin.
Clothing
While scratchy clothing is not a direct cause of dry skin, it can greatly exacerbate the condition. If your skin is dry, avoid clothing that is too tight or that rubs anywhere. Dry skin is more susceptible to irritation because the layer of fatty substances beneath the surface is depleted.
Environmental
Besides harsh soaps, exposure to other irritants found in household cleaners, laundry detergent, fabric softener, hard water and chemically treated pools and spas can dry skin. Some substances quickly sap the moisture from your skin, including soil, wet concrete and pottery clay. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and gloves when working with these products.
Medical conditions
Although most dry skin problems are a result of direct contact with harsh cleaners and chemicals, MayoClinic.com advises that some cases of dry skin are symptoms of an underlying disorder. Hypothyroidism, psoriasis and diabetes may result in dry skin as well as side effects from some medications. Consult your doctor if you think your dry skin is the result of a medical condition.
Sunshine
Basking in the summer sun may give you a golden tan, but it can also leave your skin dry and flaky. Because the sun's rays penetrate the surface of your skin, they can damage the underlying fatty layer and reduce the natural oil production. Use a sunscreen of SPF-15 or higher before taking part in outside activities.
Causes of Dry Skin by cosmeticsuniverse.com