Dry skin is a common problem that people deal with all year. That’s why taking precautions to keep your skin healthy is essential. But to take preventive measures, you must first understand the cause of dry skin.
To help you with that, this guide will teach you what causes dry skin and give you five helpful tips to fight and avoid it.
Understanding dry skin: Why does it occur?
Many things besides low humidity can cause dry skin; here are the most common of them:
Pollution and harsh winds
Environmental factors like pollution and strong winds also cause dry skin. Urban areas, in particular, expose individuals to higher pollution levels, impacting the skin’s natural oils. Due to these, people who live in cities may need to pay more attention to their skincare.
Climate and temperature fluctuations
Extreme winters and summers can dry skin. Hot weather dehydrates the skin, while cold air strips it of essential oils. Seasonal modifications in skincare habits may help people in harsh climates cope with extreme temperatures.
Indoor heating and air conditioning
Using artificial heating systems in the winter and air conditioning in the summer can dry internal air. The lower humidity caused by these devices makes the skin lose moisture. Using humidifiers to keep the humidity level inside at a healthy level can help lessen the drying effects of air conditioning and heating.
Hot water and harsh cleansers
When you use harsh cleaners and shower or bathe a lot with hot water, it can strip your skin of its natural oils. Unfortunately, this weakens the skin’s protection, making it more likely to get dry. People prone to dry skin can keep it moisturized by using lukewarm water and light cleansers without scents.
Medications and underlying health conditions
Side effects of antihypertensives and acne therapies might cause dry skin. Also, health problems like hypothyroidism or eczema can change the amount of moisture in the skin. Wellness is crucial to skin hydration, so medication users should discuss side effects with their doctors.
5 Simple dry skin prevention tips
Now that you know the common causes of dry skin, it’s time to learn the five preventive tips to help you combat this issue.
1. Hydration and nutrition
While drinking water is crucial, incorporating hydrating foods into your diet is just as important.
Water-rich fruits and vegetables can provide an additional source of hydration for the skin. Watermelon, cucumber, and oranges are refreshing and contribute to skin hydration. Aside from healthy foods, don’t forget to drink lots of water.
In addition, healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids are crucial in supporting skin health. These can be found in fatty fish like salmon, chia seeds, and flaxseeds. Including omega-3-rich foods in your diet promotes skin elasticity and reduces inflammation.
2. Exfoliation for healthy skin
While physical exfoliation is beneficial, incorporating chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) can offer a more thorough removal of dead skin cells. A smoother skin can be achieved with glycolic or salicylic acid products.
Your exfoliation frequency depends on your skin type. You might benefit from exfoliating once a week if you have sensitive skin. If you have oilier skin, you can do it more often. Knowing your skin type lets you customize your exfoliation process to get the best results without making your skin red or irritated.
3. Shower habits for skin health
Showering products with moisturizing ingredients, such as shea butter or glycerin, can help lock in moisture during cleansing. Body washes also contain hyaluronic acid, which can contribute to maintaining skin hydration, especially in drier climates.
Also, while lukewarm showers are recommended, a brief burst of cold water at the end can help seal the skin’s pores, reducing moisture loss. Cold water exposure can invigorate the skin and enhance its ability to retain moisture.
4. Consistency is key
Adapting your skincare routine seasonally involves using heavier moisturizers in winter, adjusting the frequency of exfoliation, and incorporating more decadent serums. Consider a hydrating serum with vitamin C during the colder months to address potential oxidative stress on the skin.
In addition, applying targeted treatments like overnight masks or ointments containing ceramides can provide intensive moisture for areas prone to excessive dryness. You can also put ceramide-rich balm on elbows and knees before bedtime to help address specific dry patches.
Using certain skin care routines at night can help keep skin hydrated. Putting on a slightly thicker moisturizer lotion before bed helps the skin regain moisture.
5. Sunscreen for overall skin protection
Applying sunscreen is not exclusive to sunny days. Even during overcast weather, UV rays can penetrate clouds, necessitating year-round sunscreen use. Tinted sunscreen provides sun protection and acts as a light foundation, offering additional benefits for daily wear.
Consider environmental factors like altitude and proximity to water, as these can influence your sunscreen’s efficacy — reflective surfaces such as water and white sand increase UV exposure. Individuals residing in mountainous regions or spending time near water bodies may need to reapply sunscreen more frequently.
Say no to dry skin starting today
Combatting dry skin involves many approaches and considerations. But with these tips, you can now start building your foundation to prevent dry skin from happening to you. Start caring for your skin today; you will feel its benefits for years.
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