Try lightly scratching your skin with a fingernail. If it leaves a white mark, that’s a sign your skin is dry. Also, check for flaking or scaly patches that resemble fish scales.
Dry skin lacks sufficient moisture to remain soft and smooth. The medical term for dry skin is xeroderma.
It often feels rough in patches, may peel, and can appear scaly. Dry skin may or may not itch (a condition known as pruritus), and in severe cases, it can crack and bleed.
What Causes Dry Skin?
Dry skin is caused by a lack of moisture in the outer layers of the skin. Contributing factors include:
- Age
As we age, the oil-producing glands in our skin become less active. This leads to a loss of natural fats and collagen (which gives skin elasticity), making the skin thinner and drier. - Climate
Environmental conditions can affect skin hydration. Low humidity, whether due to cold or dry weather, can strip moisture from the skin. - Health Conditions and Genetics
Certain medical conditions and genetic factors increase the risk of dry skin, including allergies, eczema, diabetes, and kidney disease. Specific jobs, especially those involving outdoor work, chemicals, or frequent handwashing, can also contribute.
Tips to Keep Skin Moisturized and Healthy
Cleanse Gently at Least Twice a Day
Use a mild, alcohol-free, non-foaming facial cleanser twice a day and after sweating. Cleansers with stearic acid (found in shea butter) or linoleic acid (found in argan oil and other oils) help restore the skin barrier.
If you have sensitive skin, cleanse with a gentle cleanser at night and rinse with water in the morning.
Moisturize Regularly
Choose cream- or oil-based moisturizers.
Use a moisturizer that contains sunscreen, or apply a separate broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Apply Body Lotion Frequently
Use lotion several times a day, especially when your skin feels dry or after washing your hands or showering, while your skin is still damp.
Look for ingredients such as urea, ceramides, fatty acids, glycerin (also called glycerol), shea butter, and cocoa butter.
Choose fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic formulas. Avoid products containing sodium lauryl sulfate, as it can cause dry skin.
Use Face and Neck Creams
Pick creams that are easy to apply and don’t leave a greasy residue.
Limit Hot Showers and Baths
Long, hot showers or baths strip your skin of natural oils. Limit bathing to once a day for 5–10 minutes, using warm water, not hot.
Use Moisturizing, Hypoallergenic Soaps
For hand washing, choose fragrance-free, moisturizing, and hypoallergenic soaps. Apply moisturizer immediately after drying, while your hands are still slightly damp.
In the shower, opt for a gentle, soap-free cleanser or body wash. Use soap only on necessary areas, such as underarms and groin. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
Use a Humidifier
Heated indoor air is often dry, which can worsen itching and flaking. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, helping to soothe dry, sensitive skin.
Wear Soft, Breathable Clothing
Choose natural fibres like cotton, which allow your skin to breathe freely. Avoid wool, even though it’s natural; it can irritate even healthy skin.
Wash Clothes with Dye- and Fragrance-Free Detergents
These are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Soothe Itchy Skin
If dryness causes itching, apply a clean, cool, damp cloth to the affected area. You can also use an anti-itch cream or ointment containing at least 1% hydrocortisone.
With gentle care and the proper skincare routine, dry skin doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. Keep your skin hydrated, protected, and comfortable every day.
References
American Academy of Dermatology. Accessed in 2025. Dermatologists’ top tips for relieving dry skin.
Cleveland Clinic. Diakses pada 2025. Dry Skin.
Health Harvard. Accessed in 2025. 9 Ways to Banish Dry Skin.
Mayo Clinic. Accessed in 2025. Dry Skin.
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