What causes dry skin?

Age

Dry skin can happen at any age, but the likelihood increases as you get older. This is because your skin produces less of the oil (sebum) that lubricates the skin as we age. It’s a natural process, but if you’re worried about dry skin, there are products available to help.

Hormones

Hormones play a vital role in skin health. This is especially true for women entering menopause. Women may find that the decreasing oestrogen levels result in skin dryness. Menopause can accelerate the decline in collagen production – the substance that helps skin feeling supple and elastic. The decrease in hormone levels can leave skin feeling thinner, and less able to retain moisture.

Skin conditions (e.g. eczema, dermatitis)

Atopic dermatitis is the most common form of eczema. Characterised by itchy and sometimes flaky skin, this condition can cause dryness. It usually flares up after contact with a ‘trigger’ or skin irritant. This could be an allergen such as dust or pets, or an ingredient in your soap or laundry detergent.

Environmental conditions

The conditions you’re in can affect your skin! This can mean that changes in the weather, or circumstances (especially moving into colder, rainier months) can dry out your skin. Extreme changes in temperature – for example, going from cold, outdoor weather, to central heating or fireplaces indoors can make this worse. Long, hot baths, or a lot of time in water can exacerbate dry skin too, so make sure you take extra care of your skin in the winter!

Other considerations in your environment include any chemicals you may be coming into contact with. Certain types of professions can have exposure to chemicals and skin irritants. Activities such as swimming in cold, or chlorinated water may be drying out your skin.