What Causes Your Dry Skin Condition?

Dry Skin is a recurring problem for many people, especially during the colder months.  But, what are the principal causes of this unsightly, and often painful, condition?

This may be a simple question but, unfortunately, it has no one single, definitive answers.

However, the key to treating dry skin is to understand its causes.

As is true in any walk of life, understanding the causes and understanding the effects go hand in hand. So, firstly let us look at some of the frequently displayed symptoms that indicate that dry skin may be a problem

Dry skin is usually very easy to identify. Skin that peels, has a scaly or flaky appearance is a tell-tale sign that the natural moisture balance of your epidermis is deficient. You may also some signs of wrinkling that otherwise cannot be explained.

A skin rash or an area of discoloration can also indicate underlying dryness. With time, this may lead to split skin and open wounds. This in turn subjects you to an increased risk of infection.

Non visible signs that your skin may be suffering from dryness include localized or an all-over itchiness and a feeling of tightness or roughness.

Dry skin can strike almost anyone at any time, however, some general pattens have been noticed by dermatologists.

Dry skin is more likely to develop during the colder winter months; hence, the associated name of “Winter Itch”. Those of us who are of more advanced years are more prone. Likewise if you have diabetes. Other medical conditions are also often associated with the condition. In addition, those pursuing certain trades or professions have a increased likelihood of dry, itchy, sore, cracked and split skin.

So, what are the main causes of dry skin? Naturally, this question lies at the root of devising how best to combat the symptoms. Further, are there any easy steps that each of us can undertake to better improve our skin care routines?

Taking a broad view of the subject, the principal causes of skin dryness belong in one or the other of two basic source groupings; internal causes and external causes.

Those causes that result from internal circumstances are varied. The main factors belonging to this category include: An inappropriate diet, a person’s genetic make-up, side effects resulting from medicines taken, various medical conditions and, especially in women, changes or an imbalances in natural hormones.

The causes that result from external circumstances are similarly varied. The chief factors included in this general grouping are: Environmental surrounds and climate, pollution levels of differing substances, inappropriate personal hygiene routines, the inappropriate choice and use of cleaning products and, poor choices of clothing encompassing materials and styling.

Most people nowadays realize that a balanced and varied diet plays an important role in overall health care. However, few appreciate that your diet plays an important role when it comes to maintaining a healthy skin condition.. Fresh foods that are rich in nutrients and vitamins, particularly vitamins A, B and C, help promote and maintain a healthy epidermis..

Fresh fruit and vegetables are a good source of nutrients and vitamins. Those particularly beneficial for skin health include apricots, oranges, strawberries, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, grapes and leafy vegetables such as spinach. Foods to avoid are those that are highly processed, have a high sugar content, contain animal fats or are fried. In addition, do not forget that is healthier for your heart and your skin to opt to bake or grill rather than frying food. Deep frying is definitely to be avoided.

You should also realize the importance of an appropriate fluid intake. Sugar rich frizzy drinks and those containing caffeine or alcoholic beverages are definitely best avoided. Fresh, ordinary tap water is the best option when your are looking to quench your thirst. This will also save you quite a bit of money in the long run.

Some medicines that are prescribed for totally unrelated conditions can have the unwanted side effect of causing dry skin. Those used to treat high blood pressure and acne are often cited in this respect. Discuss this with your doctor if you think you may be affected. It is important to understand that it can be dangerous to cease taking prescribed medicines without appropriate professional advice.

Factors arising from your localized environment included being subjected to the heated air of homes, offices and shops. Dry, heated, confined environments will suck the water content from your skin’s surface. Perhaps, somewhat bizarrely, the chill winds of the winter months also act to draw the moisture from your skin as well. Inside, humidifiers can help readdress the balance. Outside, make sure you wear warm clothing, and do not forget the gloves and scarf!

Contact dermatitis has been extensively linked to cases of dry skin. The external irritants that are responsible for dermatitis often play a part in removing the top lipid layer off from your epidermis. It is these same fatty lipids that undertake the important task of maintaining the skin’s correct moisture level. Contact dermatitis is often associated with workplace hazards.

Florists, dental assistants, hairdressers, medical workers and mechanics are all jobs that have a track record linked to dermatitis. Here, the optimum to resolve the situation is to remove the source of the external irritant – which is often problematical. Sometimes, where this is not possible, protective clothing should be provided and regulations, ensuring that they are worn, enforced.

Many people believe that dry skin results directly from poor personal cleanliness. In endeavor to rectify this erroneous belief, some people become over obsessed with frequent washing, often using strong soaps. Post-wash products that bestow a fragrance are also often over-applied.

The best advice, if you suffer from dry skin, is to always use mild, perfume and alcohol free products. Desist using artificial scents. Never forget the purpose of deodorants; they have one distinct purpose so do not use them as a perfume substitute. Do not give brushes or harsh sponges any place in your home. Dab your towel with a blotting action when drying.

Finally, if have dry, itchy or flaking skin, choose loose fitting clothing that has a high natural fiber content. Cotton is ideal. This helps your skin to breathe naturally and provides the best option to reduce chaffing.

Remember, your skin is yours to keep for a lifetime, take good care of it and you will enjoy many happy years together.