Dry skin is also known as xeroderma or xerosis. It can occur when the skin’s natural oils become deficient. This can be due to:
(1) environmental causes
(2) nutritional deficiencies
(3) medical conditions
(4) normal aging processes
Los Angeles patients who are interested in finding solutions for dry skin should consider taking action on more than one level.
DERMATOLOGY
Many people are familiar with dry skin as being a common issue in the winter. However, this condition can also occur as a result of being in drier, desert-like climates. In both cases, there is very little moisture in the air. And this can deplete the water content of the skin.
Dry Skin And Skin Products
Certain types of skin products can also contribute to dryness. This includes:
– products with alcohol in the ingredients
– antibacterial products
– products with deodorizing capabilities
These items can easily strip the skin of its natural oils.
The Effects of Hot Baths or Showers
Hot baths and showers can also contribute to loss of moisture in the skin. First, you should understand that the outer skin layer is made primarily of cells known as keratinocytes. Part of their function is to help protect your skin from dryness.
Your sebaceous glands release oil onto the surface, forming what is known as the stratum corneum (oil layer plus external skin cells). This forms a protective barrier against moisture loss.
Hot water along with harsh soaps will break up this oily layer, similar to what happens when you wash a greasy frying pan. This causes moisture to escape, leading to dry skin.
NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCIES AND DRY SKIN
Besides the effects of the environment, nutritional deficiencies can also contribute to skin dryness. Your skin and body rely on having the right vitamins and minerals to perform normal functions. Deficiencies can disrupt some of these processes with dry skin being a possible result
(1) Vitamin C
Vitamin C is needed for your skin to produce collagen and elastin. This is needed for proper elasticity and firmness.
(2) Biotin
Biotin is a vitamin that helps to metabolize fatty acids so that they can be used by the body. Deficiencies are rare. However depleted levels of biotin can result in dry skin as well as brittle hair and nails
(3) Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 fatty acids are used by the body to produce lipids. Lipids form the outer layer of cells. Therefore, they are important for skin cell regeneration and the formation of younger, healthier skin.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS
There are certain medical conditions that are associated with the formation of dry skin. This includes:
(1) Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
Atopic dermatitis is an immune related disorder. It is not clear what the exact causes are. However, it is believed to be due to dysfunctions of the immune system and the individual’s predisposition towards having dry skin. This results in itchy scaly patches that appear.
(2) Psoriasis
Psoriasis is also related to malfunctions of the immune system. This results in issues with the life cycle of cells. And this causes an over production of skin cells which dry out and shed.
AGING
As we get older, we lose collagen, elastin and fat tissue that underlies the skin. This results in a reduced thickness. All these factors account for why older skin tends to be drier than younger skin.
SOLUTIONS FOR DRY SKIN
If you are wondering what can be done to reverse the effects of dry skin, here are some suggestions:
(1) Use proper moisturizers.
You may need to ask a dermatologist for advice. He or she may recommend products with ingredients such as urea or lactic acid. As a general rule of thumb, thicker formations should be used for more severe cases.
Common brand names that are often recommended by dermatologists include: Aquaphor, CeraV, Eucerin and Cetaphil.
(2) Apply moisturizers right after showering or bathing
Dry your skin gently with a towel and apply a moisturizer immediately afterwards. This will help keep in water that has been absorbed by the skin.
(3) Eat a well balanced diet
This would include food choices rich in Vitamin C, Omega 3 fatty acids and other nutrients.
(4) See a dermatologist for medical related issues
You may need prescription medications to help alleviate these symptoms.
Dry skin may require proper moisturizing, diet choices and possible medical attention
Los Angeles dry skin patients will benefit by learning about their condition and the different ways to address this issue.