Caring for Dry Skin

Dry skin is a problem that affects up to 20% of Americans at some point during their lifetime. Even if a specific condition like eczema has not been diagnosed, the condition can still be very uncomfortable. Typical symptoms include skin that is:

• Red
• Chapped
• Cracked
• Sore
• Calloused
• Raw
• Tight

Fortunately, dry skin can be treated and returned to its softer, smoother, supple state.

In healthy skin, the sebaceous glands release sebum, an oily substance, which keeps the skin moist, waterproof, and flexible. This, combined with natural oils like lipids and natural moisturizing factors, creates a barrier on the surface of the skin that keeps irritants out and water in.

When skin becomes dry, the natural oils are produced properly and the barrier can’t do its job. This is a common occurrence among babies and children because their oil-producing glands haven’t developed fully. In adults, dry skin is more often than not caused by external or environmental irritants.

Once skin becomes dry, the first thing to do is try a complete emollient therapy. Emollients are extremely effective moisturizers that help keep skin soft. They restore natural moisture, lipids, and oils, re-creating the barrier on the skin’s surface. This helps prevent more moisture loss and stops bacteria from getting in.

There are a number of things that trigger dry skin. Knowing these things can help anyone to avoid what irritates their skin. They include:

• Dry, cold, and windy weather
• Central heating
• Poor ventilation
• Chemicals, strong detergents, and soaps
• Excessive water contact
• Bath or shower water that is too hot
• Wool clothes
• Smoking
• Birth control pills
• Getting older

Some of these things cannot be avoided, such as getting older and dry weather, but others can. Try to avoid as many causes of dry skin as possible in order to prevent your skin from becoming irritated.

Contact a Houston Medical Spa

For more information on skin care and preventing the signs of aging, contact the Houston medical spa Dermagenix at 713-662-3376 today.