Dry skin is an increasingly common problem. It usually isn’t serious but it can be really uncomfortable as well as unsightly. With dry skin moisture is sucked from healthy skin cells causing them to shrivel up and become cracked with deep lines. Dry skin is usually caused by environmental factors. Extreme heat and cold and low humidity are the most common causes of dry skin.

Dry skin is usually temporary and is far worse in the wintertime because the outside humidity is quite low. It is during these months you will notice your skin begin to tighten, develop fine lines, start cracking, and becoming red and irritated. The most common places for dry skin to appear is at joints. So watch your elbows, lower legs, and knuckles.

Almost everybody suffers from dry skin at some point in their lives. There are some factors that make you more likely to get dry skin. As you age you skin starts to produce less oil. The oil helps to keep moisture in your skin. Women are more likely to get dry skin as they get older because their body stops producing moisture holding oil before their male counterparts. Prolonged exposure to sun also causes dry skin so always remember to wear sunscreen when hanging out at the beach.

Even though dry skin is usually temporary, there are some cases that just won’t go away. If this happens to you then you should go see a dermatologist. It is important you do this because persistent dry skin can be an early sign of eczema or psoriasis. Your dermatologist will ask you all sorts of questions to try and determine the severity of your dry skin problem. It is especially important to go seek professional help if the itching related to your dry skin is keeping you up at night, or if you develop open sores that bleed.

Treatment for dry skin is usually very simple. Daily moisturizer is usually all it takes. Taking long hot showers can suck the moisture right out of your skin, so you should stop doing so (I know it’s easier said than done, especially in the winter). If you notice your skin is not only dry but scaly, like a reptile, as well then your dermatologist may suggest a moisturizing cream with lactic acid and urea. These two ingredients can help clear up that unsightly skin pretty quickly. If it is really red and irritated try using a little hydrocortisone.

A good trick to help combat dry skin during the winter months is to get a humidifier and leave it on. A humidifier will help keep the humidity levels in your home at a normal level, which in turn helps prevent dry skin.

There are many products on the market that can really help you with your dry skin. Always make sure you read the label. Avoid products with harsh chemicals and strong deodorants. Try and find natural and organic moisturizers. If you can’t find anything natural then look for a real mild product. Some people have really sensitive skin so if you are one of those people make sure you look for really mild products with little or no additives.

Dry skin isn’t usually a problem, so if you feel your skin tighten or become itchy moisturize the area immediately. A daily moisturizing routine isn’t a horrible idea. Your skin needs moisture especially as you get older. If your skin begins to become cracked and infected try something like hydrocortisone or something with an antibacterial compound.

If it doesn’t go away consult your dermatologist, he or she will know what to do. Although dry skin is common and usually harmless it can be a sign for something worse like eczema or psoriasis so talk to a professional if it doesn’t clear up. Dry skin is unsightly, but don’t get embarrassed because you’re not alone.