Dry skin is extremely common and is experienced by almost everyone at some point in his or her lifetime. In some cases it can be genetic-one can be predisposed to having a drier type of skin. But in many cases, dry skin occurs due to external factors like extremes in climate, UV sunlight rays, and from exposure to chemicals and detergents that strip moisture away from the topmost protective layers of skin.
Our skin acts as a two-way barrier protecting the internal body from external elements and preventing the excessive outward passage of water and electrolytes. Dry skin is the result of decreased moisture in the top layers of our skin-s epidermis (the stratum corneum), which weakens its protective function and can affect the appearance of skin. Maintaining the right moisture balance in the top layers of the skin-s epidermis is important in managing dry skin conditions and keeping skin healthy-looking, hydrated and smooth.
Helping to keep the skin-s balance of moisture and protection is a hydrolipid film composed of moisture and natural oils (including fatty acids and lipids) that covers the skin-s surface. In dry skin, this film has become impaired, leading to moisture loss and dryness. Excessive showering and bathing, especially in hot water, washes away these protective oils. And many soaps and detergents can strip natural moisture. Cold winter weather, wind, heat and excessive sun exposure can all disturb skin's natural hydration levels and lead to dry skin.
In addition to external factors, there are many conditions, such as eczema and atopic dermatitis and psoriasis that can cause extremely dry skin. And as aging skin loses its capacity to retain moisture, the result is often dryness and wrinkles.
Dry skin can also become flaky, rough or bumpy. Keratosis Pilaris is a common dry skin condition that causes rough skin bumps, usually on arms and legs.
