If you suffer from dry skin, then you already know how much of a problem it can be. The flakiness can make it embarrassing to be seen, the itchiness can be annoying, and if it gets worse, you can end up with unhealthy and unsightly peeling and cracking of the skin. That is why so many work so hard to treat dry skin once they see they have it. However, if you really want to treat the problem, it is important to understand what causes it.

Dry skin can actually be caused by a number of issues. However, there are five causes of dry skin that can account for nearly everyone who suffers from it. Once you understand why you have dry skin, it is easier to start seeking out the treatment that will work best for you.

When everything is working right and your skin is healthy, it is moist and supple as you probably know. This is largely due to the sebaceous glands in your skin that produce natural oils. Additionally, fluids in your sweat glands and in lower tissue layers also assist in keeping your skin moist and functional. The problem is, though, that everything doesn’t always go right. Consider these five issues that can cause your skin to become dry.

One of the biggest reasons for dry skin is genetics. That is right, you can get it from your parents or grandparents. If that is the case, you will always need to be aware of the problem and develop a routine. Usually the main problem genetically is that your skin just simply does not hold in moisture as much as it should or as much as others do. The other issue could be that the glands do not produce the proper amounts of the proper fluids and oils for your skin’s health.

The fact is that everyone gets older. As you do age, your skin will have a tendency to become more and more dry. What happens is that as age sets on, the sebaceous glands will produce less and less of the essential oils needed to keep your skin healthy. Over more time this creates skin that is not as able to hold moisture in.

Humidity can be a big part of dry skin. Humidity is the amount of moisture in the air. That is why in the winter, when the air is dryer, you may find that your skin feels worse and drier. Additionally, you may find that if you live in a dessert or high altitude region that you have the same problem most of the year.

Sometimes dry skin is a result of improper washing of the skin. If you use water that is too hot, perfumed soaps, or even the wrong shampoo, you can end up with dry skin. Instead, use cold or warm water with moisturizers and moisturizing soap. In severe cases, you can make your own moisturizing soap at home with oatmeal and a cloth tea bag.

Finally, there is the issue of chemicals. Most days, you likely come in contact with chemicals that can dry your skin. These can be household cleaners, chemicals, and even your own soaps. Be sure to avoid making contact with cleaners and cleansers with your skin whenever possible. Wear gloves and be aware of what you are using.

As you can see, there is plenty to blame for dry skin. Knowing the causes, though, will help you to begin treating and fixing your dry skin problem.