Dry Skin Symptoms: Understanding Signs and Solutions
Itchy dry skin is one of the most common conditions which affects most of us at some point in our lives. The condition is often temporary, as well as seasonal.
Age and Dry Skin: Navigating Changes in Skin Texture
Signs and symptoms of dry skin vary based on a number of factors. These include age, the weather, skin tone and sun exposure to name a few. Common symptoms include: flaking skin by the nose, flaking skin on the eyelids, tight skin, itchiness, as well as fine lines and cracks.
What Causes Dry Skin? Understanding Environmental Triggers
Dry skin becomes more common as we age. With age, our skin loses the ability to trap and bind water, and the amount of oil our skin produces decreases.¹
Winter Dryness: Coping with Seasonal Skin Challenges
Many people experience dryness during winter. This is because winter air is often dryer, and indoor fires and heating systems additionally contribute to skin moisture loss.
Summer Dryness: Managing Moisture Loss in Warmer Months
On the other hand, in summer those who spend a lot of the season indoors may also experience dryness. This results from exposure to the dry air that comes from air conditioning units.
The Impact of Water on Dry Skin: Balancing Hydration
Excessive exposure to water can also cause dryness, especially hot water. This is because hot water can strip away the skin’s natural oils, leading to dry skin itching.
Chemical Exposure and Dry Skin: Protecting Skin Health
Similarly, chemicals can also cause skin dryness. For example, swimmers who are often exposed to chlorine, or regular hand washers and those who regularly use hand sanitiser, risk irritating the skin and stripping natural oils.
Medical Conditions and Dry Skin: Exploring Underlying Causes
Skin dryness can also arise as a result of medical conditions such as eczema, and psoriasis.²
Q&A
What are the common symptoms of dry skin?
Common symptoms of dry skin include flaking skin, tightness, itchiness, fine lines, cracks, and flakiness around the nose and eyelids.
How does age contribute to dry skin?
As we age, our skin loses the ability to retain moisture and produce sufficient oil, leading to increased dryness and susceptibility to environmental factors.
References
1. Tončić R, Kezić S, Hadžavdić S, Marinović B. Skin Barrier and Dry Skin in the Mature Patient. Clinics in Dermatology. 2018;36(2):109-115.
2. Siddappa K. Dry Skin Conditions, Eczema and Emollients in Their Management. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology. 2003;69(2):69-75.
