Skin is a reflection of what is going on inside the body, and its condition often reveals a lot. When it is dry, it feels tight, sometimes cracks, and is easily irritated. To nourish dry skin and regain supple, soft skin, you need to take action on two fronts: adopting a healthy lifestyle (which should be the priority) and implementing external skincare practices (which perfectly and effectively complement the healthy lifestyle measures you put in place).
Determining the cause of dry skin and adapting both daily hygiene practices and skincare products in a targeted way are necessary parameters for effective action.
What is Dry Skin?
Dry skin lacks both lipids (fats) and water. It is the result of two cumulative phenomena: cutaneous dehydration and the inefficiency or non-existence of the cutaneous hydrolipidic film.
The hydrolipidic film, or cutaneous film, is a layer composed of an emulsion of fat and water that covers the entire surface of the epidermis. This film performs several important functions: it forms part of the skin barrier, fights microbial infections, and regulates the skin’s moisture content. The film has a slightly acidic pH, between 5 and 6.
Sebum is the oily substance secreted by the skin to lubricate itself. Dry skin is a sign of a lack of sebum.
When the skin is dry, it tends to tug, especially after washing; it gets rapidly irritated and itchy; it flakes easily (peels off in small flakes); it appears bleached and can sometimes crack slightly or more severely, creating deep, painful fissures.
What are the Possible Causes of Dry Skin?
Dry skin can be caused by several factors, and you may have one or several of them. The important thing is to identify them so that you can correct them with appropriate lifestyle measures.
Tissue Acidity
Dry skin is typically a sign of tissue acidity and an acid-base imbalance. On a day-to-day basis, the body makes every effort to keep the blood within an acceptable pH range. This range is very narrow, and any breach of this pH range would be life-threatening. Naturally, as the body functions, it tends towards acidification and compensates using so-called buffer systems.
If the body is not properly nourished, it will draw base ions from its tissues (skin, bones, hair, teeth, nails) to compensate for the blood’s tendency towards acidity. However, in doing so, it deprives the tissues of these basic ions and acidifies them. Unlike blood acidity, tissue acidity does not threaten immediate survival. This results in several signs, including dry skin.
Dehydration
Lack of daily hydration has a major impact on skin quality. For those whose skin is already prone to dryness, this deficiency exacerbates the dryness of the epidermis.
Cold
Cold is a major factor in skin dryness. In winter, the skin produces less sebum, which accelerates the renewal of epidermal cells, resulting in dry skin.
Sun Exposure
Prolonged exposure to the sun also increases skin dryness. Depending on skin type, UV exposure will have different consequences. On dry skin, the sun further amplifies the phenomenon. On oily skin, it hardens the epidermis, mechanically clogging pores and increasing the appearance of acne pimples.
Unsuitable Diet
Food is not just a source of pleasure; it must be nutritionally rich to provide the body with everything it needs to function properly. A devitalized, industrialized diet devoid of vitamins, minerals, and trace elements is the cause of many disorders. Skin health requires an essential supply of these micronutrients.
Unsuitable Beauty Products
Using harsh and drying skincare products can worsen dry skin. Products that contain alcohol, fragrances, and harsh chemicals can strip the skin of its natural oils and disrupt the skin’s moisture balance. It is important to choose gentle and hydrating products specifically formulated for dry skin.
Excessive Cleansing
Over-cleansing the skin or using hot water can strip away the natural oils and moisture from the skin, leading to dryness. It is recommended to cleanse the skin gently using a mild, hydrating cleanser and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the skin too vigorously.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can contribute to dry skin. Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and hypothyroidism can cause dryness and flakiness of the skin. If you suspect an underlying medical condition, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How to Nourish Dry Skin
1. Hydrate from Within
Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to keep your body and skin hydrated. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day. Additionally, include hydrating foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and fatty fish.
2. Moisturize Regularly
Apply a moisturizer specifically formulated for dry skin daily. Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and natural oils such as jojoba oil or argan oil. Apply the moisturizer immediately after showering or washing your face to lock in moisture.
3. Use Gentle Cleansers
Opt for mild and hydrating cleansers that do not strip the skin’s natural oils. Look for products labeled as “gentle,” “hydrating,” or “moisturizing.” Avoid using harsh soaps or cleansers with strong fragrances.
4. Limit Hot Showers
Hot water can strip away the skin’s natural oils and contribute to dryness. Opt for lukewarm water while showering and limit the duration of your showers or baths to avoid excessive drying of the skin.
5. Protect Your Skin from Harsh Elements
Protect your skin from cold weather, wind, and excessive sun exposure. Wear protective clothing, use moisturizers with SPF, and consider using a humidifier in dry indoor environments to add moisture to the air.
6. Exfoliate Gently
Exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and improve the absorption of moisturizers. However, be gentle when exfoliating dry skin. Choose mild exfoliators and limit exfoliation to once or twice a week to avoid over-drying the skin.
7. Avoid Harsh Ingredients
Avoid skincare products that contain alcohol, fragrances, and harsh chemicals, as they can further dry out the skin. Opt for products labeled as “gentle,” “suitable for dry skin,” or “fragrance-free.”
8. Consider Using Face Oils
Face oils can provide an extra boost of hydration for dry skin. Look for oils like argan oil, rosehip oil, or jojoba oil, which are known for their moisturizing properties. Apply a few drops of oil to your face after moisturizing or mix a drop or two with your moisturizer.
9. Protect Your Hands
Dry skin on the hands can be particularly uncomfortable. Protect your hands by wearing gloves when exposed to cold weather or when doing tasks that involve water or harsh chemicals. Apply a rich hand cream regularly throughout the day.
10. Consult a Dermatologist
If your dry skin persists despite following a proper skincare routine, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. They can assess your skin condition, provide personalized recommendations, and prescribe suitable treatments if necessary.
Remember, consistency is key when it comes to nourish dry skin. Stick to a regular skincare routine and be patient, as it may take some time to see noticeable improvements.
