Dry Skin - The Main Causes

Dry Skin is a recurring problem for many people, especially during the colder months.  But, what are the principal causes of this unsightly, and often painful, condition?

This may be a simple question but, unfortunately, it has no one single, definitive answers.

However, the key to treating dry skin is to understand its causes.


To understand the causes of dry skin, we first need to look at some of the more common symptoms. So, firstly let us look at some of the frequently displayed symptoms that indicate that dry skin may be a problem

Dry skin is usually very easy to identify. Skin that peels, with or without signs of of dry flakiness, is a definite sign that your skin suffers a moisture deficiency. Another tell tale sign is a wrinkling of the surface.

A sore rash or a localised, constant skin irritation may be evidence of deeper issues including dry skin. With time, this may lead to split skin and open wounds. This in turn subjects you to an increased risk of infection.

Other, non-visual indications that your skin may be subject to dryness include itchiness and a general sensation of tightness or roughness.

Dry skin can strike almost anyone at any time, however, some general pattens have been noticed by dermatologists.

Dry skin conditions are more likely to occur or, if already present more likely to worsen, during the colder winter months; in these cases it is sometimes referred to as "winter itch". Unfortunately, ageing brings an increased risk of dry skin. As does the presence of diabetes. There are also many other ailments that may or may not result in incidences of dry skin. However, these are rarer and less consistent with their symptoms. Further, various work sectors are known to be linked to an increased likelihood of dry skin and its associated problems.

So, the obvious question that follows on from all this is: What are the principal causes of dry skin?? Of course, answering this seemingly innocent query lies at the heart of treatment aimed at mitigating the symptoms. Further, are there any easy steps that each of us can undertake to better improve our skin care routines?

Taking a broad view of the subject, the principal causes of skin dryness belong in one or the other of two basic source groupings; external causes and internal causes.

Those factors that stem from internal causes are varied. The most cited, and most prevalent, circumstances that belong to this grouping include: An inadequately varied diet, genetic inheritance, medication side-effects, other health related conditions and the natural ebb and flow of a changing hormone balance.

The causes that are a consequence of external influences are likewise varied. The chief factors included in this general grouping are: Environmental and climatic conditions, levels of airborne contaminates, ill-informed personal hygiene routines, the wrong choices made when selecting cleaning products and ill-fitting clothing manufactured from synthetic materials.

Most people nowadays realise that a balanced and varied diet plays an important role in overall health care. However, few fully appreciate how important a role your diet plays when it comes to promoting a healthy skin. To nurture and maintain a healthy epidermis, foods rich in vitamins A, B and C should form a constituent part of your daily intake.

Fruit and vegetables are an important and readily available source of nutrients and vitamins. Those particularly beneficial for skin health include apricots, oranges, strawberries, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, grapes and leafy vegetables such as spinach. You should also aim to reduce your intake of foods that are highly processed, contain a high sugar or animal fat content. Further, remember that it is healthier to cook by baking or grilling instead of frying.

You should also be aware of the key role your fluid consumption plays. Sugar rich frizzy drinks and those containing caffeine or alcoholic beverages are definitely best avoided. Fresh water is the most beneficial, and cheaper, alternative to sugary, caffeine drinks.

Some medications, particularly those that are prescribed for hypertension and acne, can result in a drying of the skin. Treatments for acne and high blood pressure are just two examples. Discuss this with your doctor if you think you may be affected. Note that it can be dangerous to halt taking a prescribed medicine and it is imperative to seek professional medical advice before doing so.

Environmental factors include over-heated homes and offices. Dry, heated, confined environments will suck the water content from your skin's surface. Perhaps, somewhat bizarrely, the chill winds of the winter months also act to draw the moisture from your skin as well. Indoors, especially in bedrooms overnight, humidifiers help to reduce the drying effects of your surrounds. Out of doors, remember to wear appropriate clothing. In particular, a scarf and gloves are essential winter wear!

Contact dermatitis has been extensively linked to cases of dry skin. The external substances that act as irritants can also be responsible for stripping the top layer of fatty lipids off from your skin. It is these same fatty lipids that undertake the important task of maintaining the skin's correct moisture level. Contact dermatitis threats plague many working environments.

Florists, dental assistants, hairdressers, print workers and mechanics are just some of the professions that have been identified with work related dermatitis. Here, the best solution is to remove contact with the source of the external irritant - which is often easier said than done. Sometimes, where this is not possible, protective clothing should be provided and regulations, ensuring that they are worn, enforced.

Regretfully, there is an often repeated myth that dry skin is a result of poor personal hygiene. In an attempt to counter this fallacy, some people may resort to washing with harsh soaps and meticulous cleansing routines. Post-wash products that bestow a fragrance are also often over-applied.

The best practice, if you are prone to getting dry skin, is to use gentle products that are fragrance and alcohol free. Steer clear of using artificial scents. Never forget the purpose of deodorants; apply them sensibly they are not a perfume substitute. Never use harsh brushes or rough sponges. When drying, dab yourself with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing, especially with any harsh materials.

Lastly, if you suffer from patches of dry or itchy skin, choose loose fitting clothing that is manufactured with a high percentage natural fibres. Cotton is ideal. This helps your skin to breathe naturally and provides the best option to reduce chaffing.

Remember, your skin is yours to keep for a lifetime, take good care of it and you will enjoy many happy years together.


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Peter Friswell has studied dry skin and its causes extensively in a professional capacity.  He rreadily appreciates that, if left untreated, dry skin can split and present a possible infection risk.  Peter shares his expertise and knowledge of skin care and protection on his useful and topical website.