Sometimes, dry skin seems to come out of nowhere, causing irritation, itchiness and stubborn flaky patches. While a good moisturiser will certainly help with some of these symptoms, getting to the root of the problem may help you find a more long-term solution. If you’re suffering from dry skin and unsure of the cause, it could be one of these everyday dehydrators — some of which may surprise you.
- Central Heating and Air Conditioning
Did you know that your central heating and air conditioning remove moisture from the air? Both systems reduce the humidity levels of air in your home, which can also pull moisture from your skin. This may cause your skin to feel drier, tighter and more sensitive.
- The Autumn and Winter Months
Dry outdoor air can also wreak havoc on your skin, and when the autumn and winter months arrive, levels of moisture in the air deplete significantly. As the weather gets colder, dry air can upset the skin’s balance and cause a dull, flaky complexion.
- Fragranced Products
Deodorants, fragranced skin-care products and perfumes can all contribute to dry skin. Any fragranced product could potentially make your skin worse if it’s already feeling dry and sensitive, so it may be best to stick to unscented formulas if your complexion’s going through a rough patch.
- Genetics
We can’t change our genetics, and unfortunately, these could also be putting you at risk of dry skin. According to a scientific study, mutations in genes that control the production of filaggrin can cause several skin conditions such as eczema. Filaggrin is a protein that plays a crucial role in the formation and hydration of the skin barrier. If dry skin runs in your family, your genes may be the cause of your skin woes.
- Laundry Detergent
Your skin may be sensitive to certain chemicals or fragrances, in which case it’s essential to use a gentle laundry detergent. Try to keep track of when your skin feels most dry — if it’s just after laundry day, there’s a good chance your detergent is the culprit.
- Soaps and Shampoos
The soap and shampoo you use could also be drying out your skin, as these products are formulated to remove oil. It’s essential to choose gentle body and hair care products if your skin is feeling sensitive — a moisturising shower cream may be better than harsh bar soap, for example.
- Hard Water
If you live in a hard water area, the high concentration of minerals coming out of your tap could be to blame for your dry skin. When washing with hard water, these minerals can leave a film on the skin that prevents moisturisers from being absorbed, making it difficult to combat symptoms of irritation.
- Long, Hot Showers
There’s no denying that hot showers feel great, especially to start your morning or end a long day. Unfortunately, all that hot water is bad for your skin and can strip it of moisture. Next time you have a shower or bath, you may want to turn the temperature down slightly.
- Ageing
The skin produces less oil as we get older, which is why adults aged 40 and over are at an increased risk of experiencing dry skin. Ageing skin happens to all of us, but with dry skin being a key contributor to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, keeping your skin well hydrated could significantly improve the appearance of your complexion. If your daily moisturiser isn’t cutting it, try skin hydration therapy for a rejuvenating glow.
- Exposure to the Sun
We all know that spending too much time in the sun can cause sun damage, but were you aware that it can also dry out your skin? Next time you’re spending time in the sun, try applying sunscreen with a built-in moisturiser to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
