What is dry skin?
Dry skin also known as xerosis, is a common skin condition when your skin don’t produce enough moisture to keep soft and supple. Dry skin may develop on legs, elbows, arms and other parts of your body. Dry skin is a common skin condition that
affects people of all ages.
Healthy Skin is typically well-hydrated, has a smooth texture, and is affected by minimal blemishes. However, dry skin is typically dehydrated, has rough texture, and is prone to signs of ageing and sensitivity.
How do you know if you have dry skin:
- Cracked, rough-looking skin
- Flakes / scales
- Peeling
- Feeling of tightness
- Redness
- Itchiness
- Bleed if severe
How dry skin developed?
Age
As we age, our oil & sweat gland will not produce enough moisture, skin will loses fat & elasticity, getting thinner & dehydrated.
Genetics
Some skin condition such as eczema may cause dry skin.
Health conditions
People with diabetes & kidney disease may have dry and itchy skin.
Environment
People who stay long hour in environment with less moisture/ humidity in the air such as air-condition room prone to have dry skin.
Frequent wash hand or using harsh soap
will strip off our natural protective layer which causes dry skin.
How to prevent/ manage dry skin?
- Cleanse with mild, moisturizing ,free from fragrance, SLS, SLES and paraben soap.
- Limit duration of shower or baths, not longer than 10 minutes, as well as using warm water.
- Pat skin dry with a soft towel.
- Apply moisturizers like *Pluvia Dermatherapist Nourishing Lotion/ Soothing Cream everyday after shower
- Drink sufficient water (at least 8 cups per day) to prevent dehydration and keep skin hydrated.
- Add moisture to your home’s air by using a humidifier.
- Minimize sun exposure by apply sunscreen or wear sunglasses, hat or long sleeve clothes.
- Avoid smoking. As nicotine will reduces blood flow which causes dry skin.
- Manage stress. Stress can aggravate eczema and other skin conditions.
