Dry Skin  Causes and Treatment

The skin is the organ in the body that gets maximum attention and care. This is important to keep it beautiful and healthy. But even when taking the essential care, skin problems can happen. Dry skin is one such common facial skin problems. Not all skin dryness is an issue to consider. For instance, dry skin due to extreme weather conditions is quite normal. But dry skin on face that lasts for over a week, and skin moisturizers work just temporarily, needs attention and treatment. But before a dry skin treatment can be effective, the cause of the dryness must be known and eliminated if possible. Let us consider some common causes and treatments for dry skin. 

Causes of Dry Skin 

Dry skin is the fact that the skin is unable to retain moisture which decreases the sebum levels. This is not a serious medical condition, but it can be uncomfortable and unattractive due to the fact the skin becomes dry and patchy, especially the skin on cheeks and area around the lips. To keep the skin soft, you need to apply a moisturizer which does not work sometimes.  

Although many factors are suspected, dehydration is the most probable cause of dry skin. The dryness occurs mostly in people who do not drink enough water throughout the day or consuming excess caffeine and sugary products. Other causes may include Vitamin A and vitamin B deficiencies, unhealthy eating habits and low intake of healthy foods that can supplement the body in water. That is, dry skin needs more hydration and hence, intake of water plays a primary role in any treatment. 

Cosmetic products can be factors for having skin dryness. Certain facial cleansers, skin creams, make-up products and skin care products can lead to dry skin. In addition, if you have skin allergic reaction to an ingredient in any of these products, the same can lead to skin irritation, dryness and itching . Therefore, pay attention to products you use before seeing a dermatologist.  

Taking a long hot shower or staying in dry indoor heating, especially in the winter, can reduce the lipids and oils in your skin,  leading to dry skin. If you spend most of your times in an air-conditioned room, you also need to consider changing lifestyle; this can lead to facial dry skin. It is also believed that certain genetic conditions, hormonal imbalance or diseases like psoriasis or diabetes can also cause dry skin patches on face.

Dry Skin Treatment  

Although chronic or severe dry skin problems may require consultation of a dermatologist, you can take steps on your own to improve your skin health, including using moisturizers, bathing less and avoiding harsh, drying soaps. You need to drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated. Omega 3 fish oil or flax seed oil should be a part of your diet. You also need to eat a balanced diet made mostly of fresh vegetables, fruits, grains, seeds, and nuts. Foods high in sulfur, like garlic (beware of the odor in your breathe), onions (the same for garlic), carrot will help you have a softer skin. Replace aerated drinks with fruit or vegetable juices, mainly fresh carrot juice.  

There are certain foods you need to stay away from. As long as you can, avoid eating fried foods, soft drinks and other junk foods which negatively affect your skin health. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they will make your skin look dry and dull. Chamomile or peppermint teas, in the other hand, are good for treating dry skin problem. Also, cleaning your skin and applying a deep moisturizer before going to bed is extremely essential and helpful to get faster results. 

It is a not a good idea to use harsh skin cleansers. You can use instead olive or almond oil to cleanse your skin. Apply oil on your face, Rub a cotton pad to clean the skin and wash off your face with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water for cleaning face which tends to worsen the dryness. 

Use natural moisturizer regularly is the key to get rid of dry skin on face. Some people have good experience with using aloe vera, a natural cleanser and moisturizer. The aloe Vera works by removing dead skin, leaving the skin smooth and soft. In addition, you can massage your face twice a week with a mixture of olive oil, rose oil, sandalwood oil, almond oil, coconut oil or sesame oil. In fact, this approach only can cure dry and itchy skin on face. Following these natural skin care options regularly not only give you a soft facial skin, but will also enhance your complexion.