Dry skin is a frustrating problem to live with and manage. The technical terms for the skin condition are xerosis or xeroderma. When the top layer of the skin looses moisture it can flake, scale, itch, and crack. Sometimes, dry skin will lead to injections and need medical attention.
Almost everyone will experience it at some point in their lives. While others have a chronic condition. Some people may experience it just for a few months but some may develop long term issues with dryness.
There are internal (medical conditions, family history, etc) and external (environment, topical exposures, etc) causes of dry skin.
What are symptoms of dry skin?
Dry skin can manifest differently depending on different patient characteristics, underlying cause and different lifestyle factors. Dry skin manifests as:
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Dull skin
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Flaking skin
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Sensation of skin tightness
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Dry itchy skin
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Scaling or peeling skin
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Cracks in the skin that may bleed
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Color changes ranging from red to gray to brown, depending on skin type
What are common causes of dry skin?
Certain medical conditions can cause dryness, but sometimes there is no explanation. Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a common condition that causes dryness. Medical conditions such as chronic kidney disease, abnormal thyroid levels, or malnutrition can also lead to dry, irritated skin. Ironically, skin medications (like those for oily skin) and topical cosmetics will cause our skin to dry.
Age plays an important role in skin moisture. In fact, as we age the average water content in our body decreases? New born babies are roughly 80% water, whereas an 80 year old is only 55% water.
Therefore, young children may experience issues with dry skin, especially if there is a family history. Whereas most dryness complaints come from patients later in life, especially after menopause in women.
Our environment also plays an important role:
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Frequent exposure to dry heat from a fan or heater
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Low humidity environments
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Air conditioning
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Frequent showers
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Swimming
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Certain soaps, detergents or cosmetic products
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Alcohol
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Dehydration
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Exposure to chemicals like laundry detergent
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Medical conditions
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Certain medications
Why does skin dry out?
Our bodies are full of water, and the skin barrier works to keep that moisture inside you. To do this, different sugars, proteins, and fats coat the skin. These compounds keep a healthy balance of moisture.
Removal of these compounds can lead to dryness in the affected area. Fats are especially important in maintaining hydrated skin. When these compounds are not present in our skin it losses its sheen and looks rough. Supplementing your normal skin care routine with a healthy diet and regular exercise can help.
Do facials help dry skin?
Many patients ask us what is the best facial for dry skin. Facials can be beneficial as they provide a range of treatments to hydrate and nourish the skin. A medical spa is a great place to start treatment. One goal of every type of facial is to restore moisture to the skin, which is essential for combating dryness.
Facials involve a deep cleansing of the skin. The removal of impurities and dead skin cells aids in overall skin health. This deep cleansing process allows for better absorption of moisturizing products, ensuring that the skin receives the hydration it needs.
In addition to cleansing, facials often include exfoliation, which helps to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells. This improves the texture and appearance of skin. It also allows for better penetration of moisturizers and other hydrating products.
Facials may also include the use of masks and serums specifically designed to hydrate and nourish the skin. These products often contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture in the skin. Other ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile can help to soothe and calm dry, irritated skin.
Another benefit of facials for dry skin is the massage component. Facial massage helps to stimulate blood circulation, which can improve the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the skin cells. This can result in a healthier, more hydrated complexion.
Overall, facials can provide much-needed hydration and nourishment to dry skin. They can help to restore moisture, improve the texture and appearance of the skin, and promote overall skin health.
It is important to consult with our skincare professionals to determine the best facial treatment for your specific dry skin concerns. Some facial treatments can actually cause dryness.
SKINVIVE for dry skin:
SKINVIVE is an FDA approved treatment for injecting hyaluronic acid directly into the skin layers with a series of micro droplet injections. Hyaluronic acid is hydrophilic, meaning it attracts and draws in water. When SKINVIVE is placed in the skin, it does just that and provides a healthy, hydrated, glow to the skin. If your dry skin is primarily a cosmetic concern, and not an underlying condition, SKINVIVE is a great option. There is no down time, and the treatment lasts 6 months without a series of treatments to get results.
How else do you treat it?
The top treatments aim to replenish fats, moisturize the skin, and heal existing skin sores. You can try many home remedies.
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Lifestyle changes
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Bathe or shower washing with lukewarm water
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Reducing the frequency of bathing
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Use mild, unscented cleansers instead of soap
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Staying hydrated
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Modified shaving behaviors including using a cream and shaving with hair growth
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Cover skin during cold or windy weather
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Moisturize after bathing or swimming
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Topical treatments
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Apply moisturizers and emollients
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Humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid
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Topical steroids if itching is a main concern
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Avoid washing with very hot water
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Try fragrance free options when possible
The main difference between emollients and moisturizers is their main goal. Emollients are typically in all moisturizers and they soften the skin. Moisturizers improve the skin’s ability to hold water and some draw water into the skin to help with dryness.
If itching is a primary concern, topical steroids may be the proper treatment. But one must use caution. Long term use of topical steroids can cause a side effect of thin skin and change it's color. You should try the lowest strength steroid if possible.
Conclusion
Dry skin is a common problem that can be frustrating to deal with. It can cause flaking, itching, and cracking, and sometimes even require medical attention. There are both internal and external factors that can contribute to dryness. Symptoms of dry skin can vary but often include dullness, flaking, tightness, itching, scaling, peeling, and even color changes.
There are several ways to treat dry skin from moisturizers to lifestyle treatments. Facials can also be a helpful treatment for dry skin. They provide deep cleansing, removing dead skin cells, and the use of masks and serums that hydrate and nourish the skin. Facial massage can improve blood circulation and promote a healthier complexion.
In conclusion, you can manage dry skin by combining lifestyle changes, using topical treatments, and regular facials. It is important to consult with a skincare professional to determine the best treatment plan for your specific dry skin concerns.