How to help manage dry skin

In this article:

Why does skin get dry?

Dry skin can be caused by internal factors in the body, such as genetics or age. It might also be in response to external factors. Here are some of the leading reasons why dry skin can show up:

• Aging. As women age, hormonal changes that occur with menopause may play a role in making their skin drier. (For the purposes of this article, “women” refers to biological sex.)
• Certain products. The use of harsh soaps, cleansers or skin care products (with ingredients like fragrances and alcohol) can lead to dryness and irritation. “Rather than using true soaps, which have an alkaline pH, opt for gentle cleansers that won’t disrupt the skin barrier,” says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, the director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. He adds that people should avoid over scrubbing or undergoing chemical exfoliation, which can be damaging to the skin barrier.
• Genetics. Genetically, some people simply have a weaker skin barrier, says Dr. Zeichner. “Think of the outer skin layer like a brick wall, where the skin cells represent the bricks and natural fats represent the mortar that sits between them.” If there isn’t enough mortar, the wall won’t be intact, which means the skin barrier can be defective, with lots of dryness.
• Medical conditions. Many conditions can have an effect. Diabetes may contribute to dry skin because high blood sugar levels can affect the skin’s ability to retain moisture. Thyroid disease can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance, which also affects the skin. Kidney disease can be a cause of dry skin, too. Dry skin might also be caused by certain skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. It’s always best to talk to a health care provider when a physical symptom arises.
• Seasonal changes and environmental factors. Low humidity, cold temperatures and wind can all contribute to dryness. These all put stress on the outer skin layer, explains Dr. Zeichner. Hot showers and high heat are also causes of dry skin, adds Mona Gohara, MD, who teaches dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine.

Understanding these causes can help people create an effective skin care routine that addresses factors that contribute to dry skin.

Dry skin symptoms

Dry skin can look dehydrated, with more noticeable fine lines, and can start to flake off when it loses enough moisture. Cracks can also appear in the skin as it dries out and shrinks. These can be deep and might bleed. Other symptoms of dry skin include burning, itchiness, peeling, stinging and wrinkles. A more severe case of dry skin may even lead to a skin infection.

Different types of dry skin

Health care providers typically categorize the causes of dry skin into two buckets: external factors (exogenous) and internal factors (endogenous).

Dry skin caused by external factors is generally more under a person’s control. It can be caused by factors such as cold weather or exposure to a lot of sun, or lifestyle practices, such as frequently taking hot showers and using harsh soaps.

Dry skin caused by internal factors is usually associated with an underlying skin condition or medical issue. These skin conditions, such as eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis), psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis can cause chronic dryness and flakiness. Certain systemic conditions (diabetes, kidney disease and thyroid disorders) and taking certain medications long-term may also result in dry skin.

How to help manage dry skin

Knowing the type of dry skin a person has helps determine how they can help manage it. A dermatologist or other health care provider can help set next steps. Some strategies may include:

• At-home options. Taking shorter, lukewarm showers is a better alternative to a long, hot soak. Long, hot baths or showers can dry out skin. People with dry skin should also consider using natural oils, such as coconut oil or almond oil. Using a humidifier to increase indoor moisture levels can help, too.
• Lifestyle changes. Certain lifestyle changes can also help improve dry skin. Wearing more protective clothing in extreme weather conditions and adopting a skin care routine that includes gentle cleansing and mild exfoliation may help people manage their dry skin.
• Over-the-counter (OTC) products. Products that attract and retain water, such as moisturizers, can help replenish the skin’s barrier and lock in moisture.

Dr. Gohara recommends La Roche-Posay Lipikar body moisturizer, which works for sensitive skin and contains ceramides, glycerin, niacinamide, shea butter and thermal water. She also likes CeraVe healing ointment, Vanicream moisturizing cream and AmLactin body lotion.

Dr. Zeichner seconds the AmLactin lotion recommendation and adds Eucerin Roughness Relief body lotion and Vaseline Intensive Care Advanced Repair body lotion.

Dry skin on different parts of the body

Patches of dry skin on specific parts of the body — like the face, legs or lips — can point to different causes, which means they may also require different management strategies.

Dry skin can affect the entire body, Dr. Zeichner explains. He said, “But we commonly see it in areas that experience more physical stress, like the hands, feet, elbows and knees.”

People might see dry skin on the hands from too much handwashing or on the body from harsh soaps, Dr. Gohara adds. But if changing these factors doesn’t bring relief, it’s important to seek care from a health care provider.