Skin Care for Dry, Sensitive Skin Types

Dry skin can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• Weather and climate: Exposure to the cold, low humidity, and dry indoor spaces can lead to dry skin.
• Occupation: People who work in jobs that require repeated hand washing or result in exposure to chemicals are more likely to have dry skin. Examples include: medical professionals, housekeepers, daycare workers, cooks, florists, and hairdressers.
• Lifestyle factors: Taking long hot showers or baths can dry out your skin. Similarly, many popular soaps can be harsh, stripping your skin of its natural oils.
• Skin diseases: Individuals who suffer from conditions like atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis commonly have dry skin.
• Systemic disorders: People with diabetes, thyroid disease, or kidney disease may also develop dry skin as a result of their health issues. Cancer survivors and cancer patients can also develop dry skin as a result of their cancer treatments.
• Age: As we age, our skin produces less oils and we become more prone to having dry skin.
• Medications: Certain medications such as retinoids and diuretics can cause dry skin.
• Diet: A lack of water intake, along with vitamin or mineral deficiencies, can lead to the onset of dry skin.

Tips for managing dry skin

• Lifestyle modifications: Limit the duration and frequency of baths and showers. Use warm water instead of hot water for baths and showers. Apply a good moisturizer right after a bath or shower.
• Product selection: Select and use only mild cleansers, good moisturizers, and fragrance-free detergents.
• Treat underlying skin conditions which may contribute to dry skin.