Dry Skin

Some of the causes of dry skin are certain medical conditions, heredity, aging, malnutrition, the side effects of some medications (such as antihistamines and diuretics), and even the daily use of harsh, drying soaps and skin products. Taking long, very hot showers or baths, or swimming in chlorinated pools sometimes causes the problem. Some types of weather—such as extreme hot or cold temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity—or dry air from internal heating are also known to cause dry skin. And of course, sun damage can cause skin to become wrinkled and coarse.
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As we get older, it’s normal for the body to go through hormonal changes. Cell turnover slows, and natural oils become depleted along with hyaluronic acid—the transparent, gel-like substance our skin uses to retain large amounts of water. Some patients might experience their skin becoming inflamed and dry due to chronic skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, or an underlying medical condition like hypothyroidism.
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Mild dry skin sometimes occurs only temporarily and is relatively harmless, though it might feel uncomfortable. Patients can usually manage dry skin on their own. However, if their own efforts haven’t helped to improve the condition; if the case is more severe and causes redness, open sores, and infections; or for dry skin that continues throughout a lifetime and negatively impacts quality of life, patients may need to seek professional care.