Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsDry Skin CausesSkincare RoutineOther WaysDry Skin vs Dehydrated SkinWhen to See a Healthcare ProviderFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Dry Skin Causes
Skincare Routine
Other Ways
Dry Skin vs Dehydrated Skin
When to See a Healthcare Provider
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you moisturize and then wonder why yourskinis still so dry?Dry skin (xerosisorxeroderma)is a common problem. About 30% of people have it at any given time.
Xerosis can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, health, or whether you try to take good care of your skin. Those factors may play a role in your dry skin, as can the time of year and where you live.
But you can take steps beyond moisturizing to get and keep your skin feeling smooth and supple. This article looks at the many causes of dry skin, what to do about it, and when you should see a healthcare provider.
NickyLloyd / Getty Images
Symptoms of Dry SkinRoughnessTightnessFlakingScalingItchingScratching a lot can damage your skin and lead to infections.
Symptoms of Dry Skin
RoughnessTightnessFlakingScalingItchingScratching a lot can damage your skin and lead to infections.
Scratching a lot can damage your skin and lead to infections.
Reasons Skin Can Be Dry After Moisturizing: Causes of Dry Skin
When your skin is dry even after moisturizing, it’s time to look at the whole picture of what’s affecting your skin. It could be:
What Is Your Skin Type?
Overwashing
It might sound odd, but you can wash your skin too much. That’s because you can scrub off the beneficial substances that help your skin stay healthy.
Those substances are made up of oils and various acids (e.g., amino acids,hyaluronicacid) that are called natural moisturizing factor (NMF). They work as a natural barrier to keep moisture in.
Washing and SanitizingFrequent hand washing and hand sanitizer use can dry out your skin. To prevent it, pat your hands dry instead of rubbing them and moisturize afterward.
Washing and Sanitizing
Frequent hand washing and hand sanitizer use can dry out your skin. To prevent it, pat your hands dry instead of rubbing them and moisturize afterward.
Harsh or Irritating Soaps and Cleansers
It’s no accident that several acids make up your NMF—skin stays healthiest in that acidic environment.
But many soaps are alkaline (the opposite of acidic.) They’re harsh, irritating, and strip away your skin’s natural moisture.
What Are the Benefits of Dermaplaning?
Fragrance
Fragranced products that stay on or against your skin can also lead to allergies, which cause even more skin problems. This problem is more likely if you:
Winter Rash: Effects and Skin Care in Colder Months
Expired Ingredients in Moisturizers
If your moisturizer seems to be less effective than it used to be, check the expiration date. While moisturizers usually last for quite a while, it’s possible for the ingredients to become gradually less effective.
Storing your moisturizers near sources of heat, such as windows or heaters, may make them lose effectiveness faster.
Facial Toner: What Does It Do for Skin?
Failure to Exfoliate
Your skin goes through a constant process of shedding dry, dead cells and replacing them with new ones. Sometimes, dead cells may build up on the skin’s surface and make it look flaky.
Gently exfoliating your skin can help slough away these cells and make your skin look and feel better.
Long or Hot Baths and Showers
A long, hot bath or shower may feel good, but heat and prolonged contact with water can strip the oils from your skin.
Many experts recommend lowering the water temperature and getting out after 10 minutes at the most. Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing, then put on lotion.
Dry Weather
Cold air is drier than warm air,so cooler weather can dry out your skin.
But just because it’s hot out doesn’t mean your skin is safe—prolonged sun exposure can also have a drying effect.
Why Is Warm Air Wetter?Warm air contains more moisture than cold air because water is more likely to turn to vapor at higher temperatures.
Why Is Warm Air Wetter?
Warm air contains more moisture than cold air because water is more likely to turn to vapor at higher temperatures.
Air Conditioning
Summer dry skin can also be related to running the air conditioner because of the effects of cooler air on moisture levels. Unless you use an evaporative cooler (which uses water), the a/c that keeps you comfortable can be hard on your skin.
You may want to run a humidifier along with the a/c, especially if you live in a dry climate.
Chlorine Exposure
It’s important to wash the chlorine off your skin and moisturize it when you get out of the pool or hot tub.
Rash After Swimming?You may have a chlorine rash if your skin is red, itchy, tender, swollen, or scaly a few hours after swimming.
Rash After Swimming?
You may have a chlorine rash if your skin is red, itchy, tender, swollen, or scaly a few hours after swimming.
Chlorine Rash: What It Is and What to Do About It
Hard Water
Hard water—which contains high levels of calcium and magnesium—can damage your skin barrier and causes dryness.
Hard water can also exacerbate skin conditions such aseczema.
Medical Conditions
Several medical conditions can make your skin dry. This includes skin conditions that might not seem to be related to skin.
Skin conditions associated with dry skin include:
Other conditions that can dry your skin are:
If you suspect your dry skin could be related to an underlying condition, talk to your healthcare provider about it.
Acne Medication
Topical acne medications such as retinoids and benzoyl peroxide can dry out your skin, making it irritated, red, and flaky.These side effects are usually worst in the first few weeks.
Common retinoids include:
Ask your dermatologist how you can minimize this side effect.
Why Retin-A Dries Your Skin
Other Medication Side Effects
Several classes of medication can lead to dry, flaky, or peeling skin. They include:
Talk to your healthcare provider about how to care for your skin while you’re on these medications.
Dehydration
Your outer layer of skin (epidermis) is about 20% water.Dehydrated skin gets dry and loses its elasticity.
Research suggests that drinking more water can make improvements in your skin’s hydration, helping correct dryness and restore elastic properties.
Recognizing and Preventing Dehydration
Malnutrition
Not getting the right nutrientsin your dietcan also impact your skin health. For example,deficienciesin certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies can dry your skin, and getting more of them is generally thought to improve skin moisture.
Key nutrients for skin health include:
Your skin may also benefit from increased dietary levels or supplements of:
Holistic Care for Dry Skin
Genetics and Ethnicity
Your genetic and ethnic background may influence your likelihood of developing dry skin. Research shows that your ethnicity helps determine your skin’s water content and how easily it loses water.
A review of studies on this topic illuminated some differences in the skin between white people, Black people, and Asian people.
Other research has identified differences in gene expression and the metabolism of lipids (fats) and other important components of skin between Black people and white people.
As researchers learn more about this, new products may be developed that are custom tailored to the skin needs of different ethnic groups.
Aging
You’re also more likely to have medical conditions or take medications that can contribute to dry skin.
Create a Skincare Routine for Dry Skin With the Right Products
You have a lot of options for products that treat dry skin. Your routine should include several steps every day. A commonly recommended routine involves:
Cleansers and Moisturizers
Not all cleansers and moisturizers are created equal. Be sure you’re selecting products formulated for dry skin.
First, don’t use bar soap. It’s likely to dry your skin more. You’re better off with a liquid cleanser.Some experts recommend cleansing at the end of the day to remove oils and particulates that can build up on your skin during the day.
Choosing the Best Facial Cleanser for You
When it comes to moisturizers, the AAD says to skip the lotion and use an ointment or cream instead. They’re more effective and less likely to irritate your skin.
You should choose cleansers and moisturizers with one or more of the following ingredients:
Experts often recommend moisturizing twice a day—in the morning and before bed. For bedtime moisturizing, look for a night cream, which is usually heavier than a product meant for use during the day.
It’s best to moisturize just after bathing or showering to seal the moisture into your skin.
The Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin
Exfoliate
Regular exfoliation can keep dead cells from clogging your pores, which allows moisturizers and other skin-care products to penetrate deeper.
However, be sure to exfoliate gently. If your skin is sensitive or you’re prone to acne, use a mild product and a washcloth. For oilier skin, you may be able to use stronger products.
If you use a chemical exfoliant, experts generally recommend using it two or three times a week. If you’re exfoliating mechanically (such as with an abrasive scrub or washcloth), once a week is probably best for preventing irritation.
Never exfoliate without moisturizing afterward.
Hydrating Toners and Serums
Your skincare routine for dry skin may need to go beyond cleansing and moisturizing. Hydrating toners and serums can help improve moisture levels in your skin.
Hydrating toners can give your skin a deeper clean and get it ready for moisturizer. Look for one specifically formulated for dry skin.
Serums contain powerful oil-based or water-based liquids that your skin can easily absorb. It typically takes only a few drops for your whole face. Be sure not to use too much.
Build a Healthy Skin-Care Routine
Other Ways to Hydrate Skin
Skin-care products aren’t the only way to moisturize and hydrate your skin. You can also:
The moisture in your skin comes from both water content and natural oils.Skin that lacks oil is dry, and skin that lacks water is dehydrated.
Symptoms of dehydrated skin include:
Also, watch for these general symptoms of dehydration:
When to See a Healthcare Provider for Dry Skin
With so many options for treating dry skin at home, you may not need medical help for it. See your healthcare provider if you have:
Your primary healthcare provider may refer you to adermatologist(a skin specialist).
Summary
Dry skin has many causes, including poor skin-care techniques, the wrong products, environmental conditions such as heat and humidity, how you eat, and even what color your skin is. It also can be from medical conditions or medications.
You can improve dry skin with the right cleansers, moisturizers, and other skin-care products. Eating right, staying hydrated, and humidifying the air may also help.
See a healthcare provider if you don’t see improvement with a good skin-care regimen and home remedies or if you have severe symptoms.
A Word From Verywell
Dry skin is quite common and can be uncomfortable and itchy. Don’t think you just have to live with it, though.
If you don’t have success with simple home remedies, talk to your healthcare provider. They may be able to offer prescription products that can get your skin in better shape.
Frequently Asked QuestionsIf your moisturizer leaves a greasy residue on your skin instead of absorbing, it may be too heavy a product for your skin. Instead try something lighter, such as switching from a cream to a lotion.If your skin is dehydrated, it may take more than one thing to get it properly moisturized. You can try:Drinking more waterUsing a cleanser designed for dry skinUsing a heavier moisturizer or moisturizing more often (at least twice a day)Using a hydrating toner and/or serumKeeping your baths and showers short and patting your skin dryUsing a humidifier in your home or workspaceLearn MoreMore Tips for Hydrating Your SkinFlaky skin can be a symptom of many skin conditions, such as:Eczema (atopic dermatitis)PsoriasisIchthyosisSeborrheic dermatitis (dandruff)Talk to your healthcare provider if you have flaky skin that doesn’t go away despite a good skin-care regimen and healthy changes to your lifestyle and environment.Learn More10 Rare Skin Diseases
If your moisturizer leaves a greasy residue on your skin instead of absorbing, it may be too heavy a product for your skin. Instead try something lighter, such as switching from a cream to a lotion.
If your skin is dehydrated, it may take more than one thing to get it properly moisturized. You can try:Drinking more waterUsing a cleanser designed for dry skinUsing a heavier moisturizer or moisturizing more often (at least twice a day)Using a hydrating toner and/or serumKeeping your baths and showers short and patting your skin dryUsing a humidifier in your home or workspaceLearn MoreMore Tips for Hydrating Your Skin
If your skin is dehydrated, it may take more than one thing to get it properly moisturized. You can try:Drinking more waterUsing a cleanser designed for dry skinUsing a heavier moisturizer or moisturizing more often (at least twice a day)Using a hydrating toner and/or serumKeeping your baths and showers short and patting your skin dryUsing a humidifier in your home or workspace
If your skin is dehydrated, it may take more than one thing to get it properly moisturized. You can try:
Learn MoreMore Tips for Hydrating Your Skin
Flaky skin can be a symptom of many skin conditions, such as:Eczema (atopic dermatitis)PsoriasisIchthyosisSeborrheic dermatitis (dandruff)Talk to your healthcare provider if you have flaky skin that doesn’t go away despite a good skin-care regimen and healthy changes to your lifestyle and environment.Learn More10 Rare Skin Diseases
Flaky skin can be a symptom of many skin conditions, such as:Eczema (atopic dermatitis)PsoriasisIchthyosisSeborrheic dermatitis (dandruff)Talk to your healthcare provider if you have flaky skin that doesn’t go away despite a good skin-care regimen and healthy changes to your lifestyle and environment.
Flaky skin can be a symptom of many skin conditions, such as:
Talk to your healthcare provider if you have flaky skin that doesn’t go away despite a good skin-care regimen and healthy changes to your lifestyle and environment.
Learn More10 Rare Skin Diseases
33 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Augustin M, Kirsten N, Körber A, et al.Prevalence, predictors and comorbidity of dry skin in the general population.J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2019;33(1):147-150. doi:10.1111/jdv.15157American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dermatologists’ top tips for relieving dry skin.Harvard University Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing.9 ways to banish dry skin.van Amerongen CCA, Ofenloch RF, Cazzaniga S, et al.Skin exposure to scented products used in daily life and fragrance contact allergy in the European general population - The EDEN Fragrance Study.Contact Dermatitis. 2021;84(6):385-394. doi:10.1111/cod.13807Colorado State University.Why can warm air “hold” more moisture than cold air?Perkins MR, Craven J, Logan K, et al.Association between domestic water hardness, chlorine, and atopic dermatitis risk in early life: a population-based cross-sectional study.J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2016;138(2):509-516. doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2016.03.031Jabbar-Lopez ZK, Ung CY, Alexander H, et al.The effect of water hardness on atopic eczema, skin barrier function: A systematic review, meta-analysis.Clin Exp Allergy. 2021;51(3):430-451. doi:10.1111/cea.13797American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dry skin: who gets and causes.U.S. Pharmacist.Causes and treatment of dry skin.Zhang N, Zhang F, Chen S, et al.Associations between hydration state and pregnancy complications, maternal-infant outcomes: protocol of a prospective observational cohort study.BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. 2020;20(1):82. doi:10.1186/s12884-020-2765-xAmerican Academy of Dermatology Association.Caring for your skin in menopause.Prescribers’ Digital Reference.Benzoyl peroxide - drug summary.Prescribers’ Digital Reference.Tretinoin - drug summary.DermNet New Zealand Trust.Beta-blockers.U.S. Pharmacist.Xerosis: treating clinically dry skin.Boer M, Duchnik E, Maleszka R, Marchlewicz M.Structural and biophysical characteristics of human skin in maintaining proper epidermal barrier function.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2016;33(1):1-5. doi:10.5114/pdia.2015.48037Akdeniz M, Tomova-Simitchieva T, Dobos G, Blume-Peytavi U, Kottner J.Does dietary fluid intake affect skin hydration in healthy humans? A systematic literature review.Skin Res Technol. 2018;24(3):459-465. doi:10.1111/srt.12454Rembe JD, Fromm-Dornieden C, Stuermer EK.Effects of vitamin B complex and vitamin C on human skin cells: is the perceived effect measurable?Adv Skin Wound Care.2018;31(5):225-233. doi:10.1097/01.ASW.0000531351.85866.d9Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM.The roles of vitamin C in skin health.Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866. doi:10.3390/nu9080866Umar M, Sastry KS, Al Ali F, Al-Khulaifi M, Wang E, Chouchane AI.Vitamin D and the pathophysiology of inflammatory skin diseases.Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2018;31(2):74-86. doi:10.1159/000485132Keen MA, Hassan I.Vitamin E in dermatology.Indian Dermatol Online J. 2016;7(4):311-315. doi:10.4103/2229-5178.185494Gupta M, Mahajan VK, Mehta KS, Chauhan PS.Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review.Dermatol Res Pract. 2014;2014:709152. doi:10.1155/2014/709152Millsop JW, Bhatia BK, Debbaneh M, Koo J, Liao W.Diet and psoriasis, part III: role of nutritional supplements.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;71(3):561-569. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2014.03.016Laing S, Bielfeldt S, Ehrenberg C, Wilhelm KP.A dermonutrient containing special collagen peptides improves skin structure and function: a randomized, placebo-controlled, triple-blind trial using confocal laser scanning microscopy on the cosmetic effects and tolerance of a drinkable collagen supplement.J Med Food. 2020;23(2):147-152. doi:10.1089/jmf.2019.0197Göllner I, Voss W, von Hehn U, Kammerer S.Ingestion of an oral hyaluronan solution improves skin hydration, wrinkle reduction, elasticity, and skin roughness: results of a clinical study.J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med. 2017;22(4):816-823. doi:10.1177/2156587217743640Wan DC, Wong VW, Longaker MT, Yang GP, Wei FC.Moisturizing different racial skin types.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2014;7(6):25-32.Girardeau-Hubert S, Deneuville C, Pageon H, et al.Reconstructed skin models revealed unexpected differences in epidermal African and Caucasian skin.Sci Rep. 2019;9(1):7456. doi:10.1038/s41598-019-43128-3Kulthanan K, Maneeprasopchoke P, Varothai S, Nuchkull P.The pH of antiseptic cleansers.Asia Pac Allergy.2014;4(1):32-36. doi:10.5415/apallergy.2014.4.1.32Evangelista MT, Abad-Casintahan F, Lopez-Villafuerte L.The effect of topical virgin coconut oil on SCORAD index, transepidermal water loss, and skin capacitance in mild to moderate pediatric atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial.Int J Dermatol. 2014;53(1):100-108. doi:10.1111/ijd.12339National Institute of Health.Pharmacological Update Properties of Aloe Vera and Its Major Active Constituents.American Academy of Dermatology Association.How to safely exfoliate at home.Harvard University Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing.Skin serum: what it can and can’t do.Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute.How to tell if your skin is dehydrated.Additional ReadingAmerican Academy of Dermatology Association.Dry skin: who gets and causes.National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine: StatPearls.Xeroderma.
33 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Augustin M, Kirsten N, Körber A, et al.Prevalence, predictors and comorbidity of dry skin in the general population.J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2019;33(1):147-150. doi:10.1111/jdv.15157American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dermatologists’ top tips for relieving dry skin.Harvard University Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing.9 ways to banish dry skin.van Amerongen CCA, Ofenloch RF, Cazzaniga S, et al.Skin exposure to scented products used in daily life and fragrance contact allergy in the European general population - The EDEN Fragrance Study.Contact Dermatitis. 2021;84(6):385-394. doi:10.1111/cod.13807Colorado State University.Why can warm air “hold” more moisture than cold air?Perkins MR, Craven J, Logan K, et al.Association between domestic water hardness, chlorine, and atopic dermatitis risk in early life: a population-based cross-sectional study.J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2016;138(2):509-516. doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2016.03.031Jabbar-Lopez ZK, Ung CY, Alexander H, et al.The effect of water hardness on atopic eczema, skin barrier function: A systematic review, meta-analysis.Clin Exp Allergy. 2021;51(3):430-451. doi:10.1111/cea.13797American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dry skin: who gets and causes.U.S. Pharmacist.Causes and treatment of dry skin.Zhang N, Zhang F, Chen S, et al.Associations between hydration state and pregnancy complications, maternal-infant outcomes: protocol of a prospective observational cohort study.BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. 2020;20(1):82. doi:10.1186/s12884-020-2765-xAmerican Academy of Dermatology Association.Caring for your skin in menopause.Prescribers’ Digital Reference.Benzoyl peroxide - drug summary.Prescribers’ Digital Reference.Tretinoin - drug summary.DermNet New Zealand Trust.Beta-blockers.U.S. Pharmacist.Xerosis: treating clinically dry skin.Boer M, Duchnik E, Maleszka R, Marchlewicz M.Structural and biophysical characteristics of human skin in maintaining proper epidermal barrier function.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2016;33(1):1-5. doi:10.5114/pdia.2015.48037Akdeniz M, Tomova-Simitchieva T, Dobos G, Blume-Peytavi U, Kottner J.Does dietary fluid intake affect skin hydration in healthy humans? A systematic literature review.Skin Res Technol. 2018;24(3):459-465. doi:10.1111/srt.12454Rembe JD, Fromm-Dornieden C, Stuermer EK.Effects of vitamin B complex and vitamin C on human skin cells: is the perceived effect measurable?Adv Skin Wound Care.2018;31(5):225-233. doi:10.1097/01.ASW.0000531351.85866.d9Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM.The roles of vitamin C in skin health.Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866. doi:10.3390/nu9080866Umar M, Sastry KS, Al Ali F, Al-Khulaifi M, Wang E, Chouchane AI.Vitamin D and the pathophysiology of inflammatory skin diseases.Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2018;31(2):74-86. doi:10.1159/000485132Keen MA, Hassan I.Vitamin E in dermatology.Indian Dermatol Online J. 2016;7(4):311-315. doi:10.4103/2229-5178.185494Gupta M, Mahajan VK, Mehta KS, Chauhan PS.Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review.Dermatol Res Pract. 2014;2014:709152. doi:10.1155/2014/709152Millsop JW, Bhatia BK, Debbaneh M, Koo J, Liao W.Diet and psoriasis, part III: role of nutritional supplements.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;71(3):561-569. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2014.03.016Laing S, Bielfeldt S, Ehrenberg C, Wilhelm KP.A dermonutrient containing special collagen peptides improves skin structure and function: a randomized, placebo-controlled, triple-blind trial using confocal laser scanning microscopy on the cosmetic effects and tolerance of a drinkable collagen supplement.J Med Food. 2020;23(2):147-152. doi:10.1089/jmf.2019.0197Göllner I, Voss W, von Hehn U, Kammerer S.Ingestion of an oral hyaluronan solution improves skin hydration, wrinkle reduction, elasticity, and skin roughness: results of a clinical study.J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med. 2017;22(4):816-823. doi:10.1177/2156587217743640Wan DC, Wong VW, Longaker MT, Yang GP, Wei FC.Moisturizing different racial skin types.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2014;7(6):25-32.Girardeau-Hubert S, Deneuville C, Pageon H, et al.Reconstructed skin models revealed unexpected differences in epidermal African and Caucasian skin.Sci Rep. 2019;9(1):7456. doi:10.1038/s41598-019-43128-3Kulthanan K, Maneeprasopchoke P, Varothai S, Nuchkull P.The pH of antiseptic cleansers.Asia Pac Allergy.2014;4(1):32-36. doi:10.5415/apallergy.2014.4.1.32Evangelista MT, Abad-Casintahan F, Lopez-Villafuerte L.The effect of topical virgin coconut oil on SCORAD index, transepidermal water loss, and skin capacitance in mild to moderate pediatric atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial.Int J Dermatol. 2014;53(1):100-108. doi:10.1111/ijd.12339National Institute of Health.Pharmacological Update Properties of Aloe Vera and Its Major Active Constituents.American Academy of Dermatology Association.How to safely exfoliate at home.Harvard University Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing.Skin serum: what it can and can’t do.Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute.How to tell if your skin is dehydrated.Additional ReadingAmerican Academy of Dermatology Association.Dry skin: who gets and causes.National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine: StatPearls.Xeroderma.
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Augustin M, Kirsten N, Körber A, et al.Prevalence, predictors and comorbidity of dry skin in the general population.J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2019;33(1):147-150. doi:10.1111/jdv.15157American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dermatologists’ top tips for relieving dry skin.Harvard University Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing.9 ways to banish dry skin.van Amerongen CCA, Ofenloch RF, Cazzaniga S, et al.Skin exposure to scented products used in daily life and fragrance contact allergy in the European general population - The EDEN Fragrance Study.Contact Dermatitis. 2021;84(6):385-394. doi:10.1111/cod.13807Colorado State University.Why can warm air “hold” more moisture than cold air?Perkins MR, Craven J, Logan K, et al.Association between domestic water hardness, chlorine, and atopic dermatitis risk in early life: a population-based cross-sectional study.J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2016;138(2):509-516. doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2016.03.031Jabbar-Lopez ZK, Ung CY, Alexander H, et al.The effect of water hardness on atopic eczema, skin barrier function: A systematic review, meta-analysis.Clin Exp Allergy. 2021;51(3):430-451. doi:10.1111/cea.13797American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dry skin: who gets and causes.U.S. Pharmacist.Causes and treatment of dry skin.Zhang N, Zhang F, Chen S, et al.Associations between hydration state and pregnancy complications, maternal-infant outcomes: protocol of a prospective observational cohort study.BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. 2020;20(1):82. doi:10.1186/s12884-020-2765-xAmerican Academy of Dermatology Association.Caring for your skin in menopause.Prescribers’ Digital Reference.Benzoyl peroxide - drug summary.Prescribers’ Digital Reference.Tretinoin - drug summary.DermNet New Zealand Trust.Beta-blockers.U.S. Pharmacist.Xerosis: treating clinically dry skin.Boer M, Duchnik E, Maleszka R, Marchlewicz M.Structural and biophysical characteristics of human skin in maintaining proper epidermal barrier function.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2016;33(1):1-5. doi:10.5114/pdia.2015.48037Akdeniz M, Tomova-Simitchieva T, Dobos G, Blume-Peytavi U, Kottner J.Does dietary fluid intake affect skin hydration in healthy humans? A systematic literature review.Skin Res Technol. 2018;24(3):459-465. doi:10.1111/srt.12454Rembe JD, Fromm-Dornieden C, Stuermer EK.Effects of vitamin B complex and vitamin C on human skin cells: is the perceived effect measurable?Adv Skin Wound Care.2018;31(5):225-233. doi:10.1097/01.ASW.0000531351.85866.d9Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM.The roles of vitamin C in skin health.Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866. doi:10.3390/nu9080866Umar M, Sastry KS, Al Ali F, Al-Khulaifi M, Wang E, Chouchane AI.Vitamin D and the pathophysiology of inflammatory skin diseases.Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2018;31(2):74-86. doi:10.1159/000485132Keen MA, Hassan I.Vitamin E in dermatology.Indian Dermatol Online J. 2016;7(4):311-315. doi:10.4103/2229-5178.185494Gupta M, Mahajan VK, Mehta KS, Chauhan PS.Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review.Dermatol Res Pract. 2014;2014:709152. doi:10.1155/2014/709152Millsop JW, Bhatia BK, Debbaneh M, Koo J, Liao W.Diet and psoriasis, part III: role of nutritional supplements.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;71(3):561-569. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2014.03.016Laing S, Bielfeldt S, Ehrenberg C, Wilhelm KP.A dermonutrient containing special collagen peptides improves skin structure and function: a randomized, placebo-controlled, triple-blind trial using confocal laser scanning microscopy on the cosmetic effects and tolerance of a drinkable collagen supplement.J Med Food. 2020;23(2):147-152. doi:10.1089/jmf.2019.0197Göllner I, Voss W, von Hehn U, Kammerer S.Ingestion of an oral hyaluronan solution improves skin hydration, wrinkle reduction, elasticity, and skin roughness: results of a clinical study.J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med. 2017;22(4):816-823. doi:10.1177/2156587217743640Wan DC, Wong VW, Longaker MT, Yang GP, Wei FC.Moisturizing different racial skin types.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2014;7(6):25-32.Girardeau-Hubert S, Deneuville C, Pageon H, et al.Reconstructed skin models revealed unexpected differences in epidermal African and Caucasian skin.Sci Rep. 2019;9(1):7456. doi:10.1038/s41598-019-43128-3Kulthanan K, Maneeprasopchoke P, Varothai S, Nuchkull P.The pH of antiseptic cleansers.Asia Pac Allergy.2014;4(1):32-36. doi:10.5415/apallergy.2014.4.1.32Evangelista MT, Abad-Casintahan F, Lopez-Villafuerte L.The effect of topical virgin coconut oil on SCORAD index, transepidermal water loss, and skin capacitance in mild to moderate pediatric atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial.Int J Dermatol. 2014;53(1):100-108. doi:10.1111/ijd.12339National Institute of Health.Pharmacological Update Properties of Aloe Vera and Its Major Active Constituents.American Academy of Dermatology Association.How to safely exfoliate at home.Harvard University Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing.Skin serum: what it can and can’t do.Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute.How to tell if your skin is dehydrated.
Augustin M, Kirsten N, Körber A, et al.Prevalence, predictors and comorbidity of dry skin in the general population.J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2019;33(1):147-150. doi:10.1111/jdv.15157
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dermatologists’ top tips for relieving dry skin.
Harvard University Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing.9 ways to banish dry skin.
van Amerongen CCA, Ofenloch RF, Cazzaniga S, et al.Skin exposure to scented products used in daily life and fragrance contact allergy in the European general population - The EDEN Fragrance Study.Contact Dermatitis. 2021;84(6):385-394. doi:10.1111/cod.13807
Colorado State University.Why can warm air “hold” more moisture than cold air?
Perkins MR, Craven J, Logan K, et al.Association between domestic water hardness, chlorine, and atopic dermatitis risk in early life: a population-based cross-sectional study.J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2016;138(2):509-516. doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2016.03.031
Jabbar-Lopez ZK, Ung CY, Alexander H, et al.The effect of water hardness on atopic eczema, skin barrier function: A systematic review, meta-analysis.Clin Exp Allergy. 2021;51(3):430-451. doi:10.1111/cea.13797
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dry skin: who gets and causes.
U.S. Pharmacist.Causes and treatment of dry skin.
Zhang N, Zhang F, Chen S, et al.Associations between hydration state and pregnancy complications, maternal-infant outcomes: protocol of a prospective observational cohort study.BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. 2020;20(1):82. doi:10.1186/s12884-020-2765-x
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Caring for your skin in menopause.
Prescribers’ Digital Reference.Benzoyl peroxide - drug summary.
Prescribers’ Digital Reference.Tretinoin - drug summary.
DermNet New Zealand Trust.Beta-blockers.
U.S. Pharmacist.Xerosis: treating clinically dry skin.
Boer M, Duchnik E, Maleszka R, Marchlewicz M.Structural and biophysical characteristics of human skin in maintaining proper epidermal barrier function.Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2016;33(1):1-5. doi:10.5114/pdia.2015.48037
Akdeniz M, Tomova-Simitchieva T, Dobos G, Blume-Peytavi U, Kottner J.Does dietary fluid intake affect skin hydration in healthy humans? A systematic literature review.Skin Res Technol. 2018;24(3):459-465. doi:10.1111/srt.12454
Rembe JD, Fromm-Dornieden C, Stuermer EK.Effects of vitamin B complex and vitamin C on human skin cells: is the perceived effect measurable?Adv Skin Wound Care.2018;31(5):225-233. doi:10.1097/01.ASW.0000531351.85866.d9
Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM.The roles of vitamin C in skin health.Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866. doi:10.3390/nu9080866
Umar M, Sastry KS, Al Ali F, Al-Khulaifi M, Wang E, Chouchane AI.Vitamin D and the pathophysiology of inflammatory skin diseases.Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2018;31(2):74-86. doi:10.1159/000485132
Keen MA, Hassan I.Vitamin E in dermatology.Indian Dermatol Online J. 2016;7(4):311-315. doi:10.4103/2229-5178.185494
Gupta M, Mahajan VK, Mehta KS, Chauhan PS.Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review.Dermatol Res Pract. 2014;2014:709152. doi:10.1155/2014/709152
Millsop JW, Bhatia BK, Debbaneh M, Koo J, Liao W.Diet and psoriasis, part III: role of nutritional supplements.J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;71(3):561-569. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2014.03.016
Laing S, Bielfeldt S, Ehrenberg C, Wilhelm KP.A dermonutrient containing special collagen peptides improves skin structure and function: a randomized, placebo-controlled, triple-blind trial using confocal laser scanning microscopy on the cosmetic effects and tolerance of a drinkable collagen supplement.J Med Food. 2020;23(2):147-152. doi:10.1089/jmf.2019.0197
Göllner I, Voss W, von Hehn U, Kammerer S.Ingestion of an oral hyaluronan solution improves skin hydration, wrinkle reduction, elasticity, and skin roughness: results of a clinical study.J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med. 2017;22(4):816-823. doi:10.1177/2156587217743640
Wan DC, Wong VW, Longaker MT, Yang GP, Wei FC.Moisturizing different racial skin types.J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2014;7(6):25-32.
Girardeau-Hubert S, Deneuville C, Pageon H, et al.Reconstructed skin models revealed unexpected differences in epidermal African and Caucasian skin.Sci Rep. 2019;9(1):7456. doi:10.1038/s41598-019-43128-3
Kulthanan K, Maneeprasopchoke P, Varothai S, Nuchkull P.The pH of antiseptic cleansers.Asia Pac Allergy.2014;4(1):32-36. doi:10.5415/apallergy.2014.4.1.32
Evangelista MT, Abad-Casintahan F, Lopez-Villafuerte L.The effect of topical virgin coconut oil on SCORAD index, transepidermal water loss, and skin capacitance in mild to moderate pediatric atopic dermatitis: a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial.Int J Dermatol. 2014;53(1):100-108. doi:10.1111/ijd.12339
National Institute of Health.Pharmacological Update Properties of Aloe Vera and Its Major Active Constituents.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.How to safely exfoliate at home.
Harvard University Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing.Skin serum: what it can and can’t do.
Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute.How to tell if your skin is dehydrated.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dry skin: who gets and causes.National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine: StatPearls.Xeroderma.
National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine: StatPearls.Xeroderma.
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