Dry Skin – Causes and Effects
Dry skin, which is also known as xerosis, is frequently seen skin problem which occurs seasonally to many individuals. We usually would barely pay any heed to such a common skin problem, but even though dry skin is fairly common, if not treated properly, the lack of moisture in the skin may lead to a variety of other skin problems.
Further more, people who have a history of having dry skin, are at an increased risk of getting wrinkles at a very early age. Thus, it makes it all the more important for us to give the required attention and treatment to dry skin.
What are the causes of dry skin?
- The primary cause of dry skin for most people is that the oil glands are unable to supply enough essential oils for lubrication of the skin. As a result of which, the skin is left without adequate moisture.
- Also, skin gets exposed to undesirable natural conditions during winter. Pollution in the air also plays a major role in the flaking of skin.
- Another cause of dry skin, can be genetic, so to say, a condition of dry skin could be hereditary.
- Nutritional deficiencies, especially those of vitamin A and vitamin B (in its various forms), can also play a major role in the skin being dry.
- A large number of chemicals and cosmetic products could also be responsible for dry skin. Very strong bathing soaps can also lead to loss of moisture content from the skin.
- Medical conditions, namely: dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, or seborrhoea are also a leading reason for dry skin.
- Dry skin could be a sign of an under active thyroid gland.
- It is common for serious skin complications to arise in people with diabetes; dry skin may be seen in initial stages of the disease.
- Drugs taken as diuretics, antispasmodics, and antihistamines, may also contribute to the skin being dry.
What are the effects of dry skin?
Apart from being a constant irritant, dry skin is has a low level of sebum as a direct result of which it becomes highly prone to sensitivity. This type of skin is unable to retain moisture, which causes it to have a constant parched and shrivelled look. Chapping, flaking and cracking of skin are the three most common indicators of dry and dehydrated skin. It leads to puffiness of the eyes, and bags hanging below the eyes. Dry skin also results in an uncomfortable and tight feeling, especially after washing the face. This inevitably results in an increased cost in moisturisers and lotions. Dryness of the skin gets accentuated by factors such as wind, very cold temperatures which also cause flaking of the skin.
Dry skin, usually becomes tightly drawn over the bones. It lends a dull look to the face, and especially sticks to the cheeks and under the eyes. This leads to lines forming at spots of dry skin and the corners of the mouth. These lines keep getting deeper and deeper until they eventually form wrinkles. The process of wrinkle formation, though completely natural, gets accelerated due to dry and unkempt skin. Thus, it becomes essential for each and every one of us to safe guard against dry skin and take the necessary precautions. We must keep in mind, that dry skin not only looks bad, but also provides a gateway to a host of other skin problems. Thus, a beautiful skin is a must for each and every one of us.
- Shishir Rao
Tags: chapping, cracking, dehydrated, dry facial skin, dry skin, moisture, skin, skin problem, skin treatments
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