If you find yourself wondering, ‘Why is my skin dry even when I moisturise?’ you’re not alone. Many people face this issue and struggle to understand why their skin continues to feel parched and uncomfortable despite using moisturisers. Today, we’ll discuss the common reasons behind persistent skin dryness. From underlying skin conditions and lifestyle factors to the types of products you use, we’ll cover all the aspects that could affect your skin’s hydration and offer practical tips on addressing your dry skin.
Identifying Symptoms of Dry Skin
Dry skin can manifest in various ways, and identifying these signs can help you address the problem more effectively. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
- Skin feels tight
- The texture appears or feels rough
- Skin looks ashy or pale, particularly in people with darker skin
- Apparent flakes or scales
- Small cracks that may bleed in severe cases
- Persistent itchiness
- Noticeable wrinkles or lines
Why Is My Skin So Dry?
If your skin still feels dry after moisturising, explore the possible reasons and adjust your skincare routine:
1. Lack of Exfoliation
If you don’t regularly remove dead skin cells, they can build up and create a barrier that makes it harder for moisturisers to work effectively. Add a gentle exfoliation to your routine to eliminate this barrier and keep your skin smooth and hydrated.
2. Excessive Washing
Over washing and using harsh cleansers are common causes of dry facial skin. Your skin naturally produces oils and other protective agents that maintain its hydration. Frequent washing or aggressive cleansers can strip these essential components, leading to dryness. Instead, use gentle products, like the Advanced CBD Purifying Cleanser. Also, consider using a facial cleansing brush to do a deep cleanse without over-drying your skin.
And yes, this goes for your hands, too! If you’re over washing your hands or using a lot of hand sanitiser, adjust your cleansing routine:
- Prioritise gentle, fragrance-free soaps over harsh chemicals.
- Lightly pat your hands with a towel to avoid irritation from rubbing too hard.
- Apply a high-quality moisturiser immediately after washing to lock in moisture.
3. Neglecting Hydration and Nutrition’s Role in Skin Health
The outermost layer of your skin typically holds 15 to 20 per cent water. Insufficient hydration can lead to a loss of elasticity, making the skin more susceptible to dryness.
- Increasing your water intake may subtly enhance the skin’s hydration and ability to stretch.
- Eating foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals also supports skin health. A shortage of vitamin A, vitamin D, zinc, and iron can make dryness worse.
4. Failing to Pick the Right Moisturiser
Different skin types require different moisturisers. If your skin is dry, a richer moisturiser may be necessary compared to someone with an oilier complexion. Studies have shown that moisturisers containing ceramides are particularly effective for dry skin.
Additional nourishing ingredients include:
- Advanced antioxidants
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Lactic Acid
- Salicylic acid
- Plant Oils
- Aquaporins (a type of protein)
- Glycerin
5. Medication and Treatment Impact
Some medications and medical procedures list dry skin as a potential side effect. These can include retinoids, diuretics, and therapies like chemotherapy. It’s important to consult with healthcare professionals if you notice your skin condition worsening with medical treatments.
6. Climate Effects on Skin Moisture
Cold and dry weather conditions extract moisture from the skin, intensifying dryness. Sun exposure can similarly deplete the skin’s natural oils and hydration levels.
7. Broader Health Conditions
Certain health issues directly impact skin hydration. Conditions linked to increased dry skin include thyroid imbalances, diabetes, renal failure, and HIV. Hormonal fluctuations, especially those associated with pregnancy and menopause, often contribute to this condition as well.
8. Genetic and Ethnic Considerations
Genetic predispositions can also play a role in how likely you are to develop dry skin:
- Certain genetic conditions, such as ichthyosis or atopic dermatitis, can make people more prone to dry skin.
- Genetic factors can directly affect the skin’s barrier function and the ability to produce natural oils.
Studies have shown that people with darker skin might experience more pronounced dry skin symptoms such as scaling and ashiness. In contrast, lighter skin may show signs of dry skin and ageing (such as wrinkles and fine lines) earlier due to differences in skin thickness and collagen.
Research also suggests varying rates of moisture loss across different ethnic groups, with Asians possibly experiencing the highest rates, though data remains inconclusive.
Moisturising Tips for Dry Skin Care
1. Lock in Moisture Post-Bath
The best time to lock in moisture is right after a bath or shower. Products that seal in moisture, known as occlusives, should be applied when the skin is still slightly damp, trapping the hydration left on your skin.
2. Moisturise Twice a Day
Consider applying a lighter moisturiser in the morning and a denser one at night. This approach allows for sustained exposure to hydrating agents throughout the day and night. A morning moisturiser with SPF can also shield the skin from the drying effects of the sun.
3. Prep Your Skin
A toner can refine pores and enhance the skin’s surface, making it more receptive to moisturisers. Choose a toner focused on hydration to prepare your skin for further treatment. Apply it right after cleansing and before adding serums and moisturiser.
4. Add Serums to Your Routine
Serums offer a high concentration of active hydrating agents like vitamin C and hyaluronic acid and should be integrated into your routine post-toning but before moisturising.
5. Pick Creams Over Lotions
If you have consistently dry skin, choose creams over lotions because their thicker texture creates a stronger barrier against moisture loss. Learning the differences between creams, lotions, gels, and ointments can help you pick a suitable option for your skin.
Dry Skin vs Dehydrated Skin
Dry and dehydrated skin, though often confused, stem from different deficiencies:
- Dry skin refers to a skin type characterised by a lack of natural oils (sebum).
- Dehydrated skin, on the other hand, is a temporary condition due to insufficient water content in the skin.
Although a temporary condition, dehydrated skin can lead to dry skin if left untreated by indirectly affecting the sebaceous glands. With persistent dehydration, these glands may not function optimally, contributing to a decrease in natural oil production.
Common causes of dehydrated skin include:
- Insufficient water intake
- Harsh environmental conditions
- Low humidity
- Overuse of harsh skincare products
- Hot showers
- Inadequate moisturisation
- Certain skin conditions
- Ageing process
Potential Complications from Dry Skin
Are you asking yourself, ‘Why is my skin getting dry and itchy?’ Don’t ignore it. Taking care of it now can help you avoid bigger issues down the road.
When skin is dry, it may crack and peel, providing an entry point for bacteria and increasing the likelihood of infection. Scratching itchy and dry skin can lead to tears that might further the risk of infection. Typical symptoms of an infected area include:
- Yellow crusts
- Pus or other discharge
- Swollen patches
- Discoloured or red areas
- Warmth in the affected area
Consulting with a Dermatologist
While dry skin is rarely a critical concern, ignoring severe or lasting symptoms can lead to further concerns. When facing ongoing issues or discomfort, consult a dermatologist for effective strategies and treatments to manage and improve your skin’s health. They can pinpoint the causes of dry facial skin and provide personalised recommendations.
Seek professional advice if you:
- Find that itching disrupts your daily activities or sleep.
- Notice signs of infection like swelling or warmth in the skin.
- See no improvement despite using specialised moisturisers and other treatments.
- Develop rashes or wounds that do not heal.
Where to Find Dry Skin Products in South Africa
If you’ve been wondering why your skin feels dry even after moisturising, it might also be time to try products backed by real science.
DS Laboratories, a leader in dermatological innovation, offers advanced solutions designed to deliver real results. With a focus on cutting-edge technology and clinical-grade formulations, our products address persistent dryness with proven efficacy. Explore our range to experience the difference and achieve truly hydrated, healthy skin.