Dry skin, suffered by many people, isn't usually a serious condition, but it can be uncomfortable and create fine lines and wrinkles which most of us consider unsightly. Most of the causes of dry skin are environmental.

 

We all have a natural oil coating over our skin produced by the skin oil glands or sebaceous glands. Dry skin is caused by this oil layer being stripped away from the skin.

 

Many factors can help to cause dry skin or make existing dry skin conditions worse, including the use of soaps and detergents, central heating and air conditioning systems, sun exposure, frequent hot baths, showers and swimming, and cold, dry weather, such as in winter time.

 

Dry skin will often appear to feel tight, with a rough rather than smooth texture, with some flaking or peeling noticeable, fine lines and may at worse include redness, itching and cracks in the skin.

 

As we age the risk of developing dry skin increases as the sebaceous glands become less active, leading to a dull or rough complexion.

 

Products designed to re-hydrate the skin and add a moisturising layer will help to combat dry skin.