Most of us will suffer from dry skin in some form during our lives. It could be anything from a little flaky skin on our cheekbones or a long-term condition such as eczema, and the range of responses will vary accordingly.

For the everyday dryness, there are a number of causes and cures. There are also preventative measures we can take, and there’s a whole moisturising industry to take care of that side of things. To complicate matters there are many kinds and degrees of dryness, and it affects different people in different ways. The point at which it becomes a problem usually depends on one of two factors: appearance and sensation.

When skin dries, it can appear blotchy or red, and dead skin can be generated more quickly, causing flakes which will start to appear on clothes. While some people are prepared to live with that, the point at which it can actually become uncomfortable or painful is usually the factor that makes them seek intervention. Much of the pain is caused by the fact that normal, naturally moisturised skin has a good deal of elasticity built into it, but dry skin is more taut and rigid, meaning normal movements can give a pinching sensation when moving or stretching. In more advanced cases elasticity can be so reduced that the skin simply cracks and can even start to bleed. A common manifestation of this problem is chapped lips.

Dry skin can come from within or from the outside. Our diet and water intake can play a big part, and keeping healthy that way can prevent many minor dry skin complaints. Other times our natural production of moisturising oils underperforms or we have got a recognised condition, in which case it\’s best to seek medical attention. It is important to follow a sensible routine when it comes to sun damage, too, as it plays a big part in general skin damage, be it after a single overexposure or over the course of our lives. When it\’s dazzling, keep covered up and slap on the factor 50 – in other words, think long-term. And what\’s the opposite of sunshine? Yes, coldness. Going out in winter can also dry out the skin thanks to low humidity. (There\’s a day in March when it\’s absolutely fine to go out though – lap it up!)

With all these causes, it\’s no wonder moisturising creams and lotions are big business. But one of the reasons that they are so successful is that they do actually work as part of a dry skin care routine. Anita Roddick, founder of the Body Shop, once famously said that moisturisers are the only cosmetic that actually works. She might have been speaking in a slightly tongue-in-cheek way, but coming from someone who was making millions selling all manner of cosmetics, it\’s quite telling.
There is little doubt that good moisturisers that contain not only hydrating agents but also ingredients such as sun block do add up to rounded ways of keeping skin moist and maintaining a younger-looking, healthier complexion.

Author Bio: Tracey has offered numerous audiences her wisdom about caring for dry skin and other unfortunate conditions that affect ones complexion. She is an authority in the area and is a guest researcher for a number of skin care clinics and different lifestyle websites.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
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