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How to help manage dry skin

Itchy, flaky skin can be a struggle. Here’s what to know about bringing back more moisture and glow.

Updated: July 31, 2024 |6 minutes to read

Written by: Amber Katz

Older woman applying moisturizer to dry skin on the back of her shoulder.

What happens when skin starts losing its glow? Google searches about “dry skin” have been on the rise for decades, especially spiking in those cold winter months.1 But weather isn’t the only thing that can dry out skin. Medical conditions, aging and daily skin care all play a role.

When the dry patches hit, few skin care foes are as relentless — or as frustrating. Even radiant complexions can start to get gray, parched and flaky.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take: Read on to learn about the root causes of dry skin and which products may help restore silky smoothness and a healthy-looking glow.

In this article:

Why is my skin so dry?

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

  • 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 dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, the director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York.2 Hot showers and high heat are also causes of dry skin, adds Mona Gohara, MD, who teaches dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine.3
  • Aging. Age can play a role as well, because the skin naturally produces less oil as you get older, making it more prone to dryness.4
  • Certain products. The use of harsh soaps, cleansers or skin care products (with ingredients like sulfates, fragrances and alcohol)5 can strip the skin of its natural oils and 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,” Dr. Zeichner says. 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.6 Thyroid disease can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance, which also affects the skin.7 And kidney disease can be a cause, too.8 Dry skin might also be caused by a skin condition, such as eczema and psoriasis. It’s always best to talk to a health care provider when a physical symptom arises.

Understanding these causes can help create an effective skin care routine — one that addresses all 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.9

Different types of dry skin

Dermatologists typically categorize the causes of dry skin into two buckets: external factors and internal factors.10

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, using harsh soaps and taking certain medications long-term.

The latter type of dry skin 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) may also result in dry skin.

A physical exam, or visiting a MinuteClinic® location, can help people determine the kind of dry skin they’re dealing with.

How to manage dry skin

The type of dry skin helps determine how to manage it. A dermatologist or other health care provider can help set next steps. Some strategies include:11,12

  • At-home options. Taking shorter, lukewarm showers is a better alternative to a long, hot soak, because long, hot baths or showers can dry out skin. Those 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. For example, wear more protective clothing in extreme weather conditions and adopt a skin care routine that includes gentle cleansing and mild exfoliation.
  • Over-the-counter products. Products that attract and retain water, such as emollients humectants and moisturizers,  can help replenish the skin’s barrier and lock in moisture.

    Dr. Gohara recommends La Roche-Posay Lipikar Body Moisturizer. It 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 Rapid Relief Restoring Lotion.

    Dr. Zeichner seconds the AmLactin lotion recommendation and adds Eucerin Roughness Relief and Vaseline Intensive Care Advanced Repair Lotion, which, he explains, can especially help with dry skin on the body.

Dry skin on different parts of the body

Patches of dry skin on specific parts of the body, like your 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, “but we commonly see it in areas that experience more physical stress, like the hands, feet, elbows and knees.”

You 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 you relief, it’s important to seek care from a medical professional.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.