What causes dry skin?

Dry skin is a common skin imbalance that can affect all skin types, at any age. Tightness, discomfort, roughness, and flaking are all telltale signs. Understanding the causes of dry skin allows you to adopt a suitable skincare routine, prevent skin dehydration, and restore lasting comfort to your skin.

What is dry skin?

Dry skin is characterized by a deficiency in skin lipids, particularly ceramides, which are essential for maintaining the skin barrier. Unlike dehydrated skin, which lacks water, dry skin mainly lacks lipids, which weakens its protective function.

A weakened skin barrier promotes insensible water loss and makes the skin more vulnerable to external aggressions.

Internal causes of dry skin

The main internal causes of dry skin include:

  • genetics, as some skin types naturally produce fewer lipids

  • age, with a gradual decrease in sebum and skin ceramides

  • hormonal imbalances

  • certain skin conditions such as eczema or atopic dermatitis

These factors directly influence the skin's ability to retain moisture and protect itself.

External causes of dry skin

External factors play a major role in the onset of dry skin: cold weather, wind and climatic variations,excessive sun exposure, pollution, the use of harsh cleansers, and showers that are too hot or too frequent.

These aggressions alter the skin barrier, accentuating dryness and discomfort.

Dry skin and weakened skin barrier

Dry skin is often a sign of a damaged skin barrier. When the skin barrier no longer functions properly, the skin loses moisture more easily and becomes more sensitive to irritation.

The lack of essential lipids prevents the skin from defending itself effectively, promoting feelings of tightness and the appearance of redness.

The role of healthy living in dry skin

Lifestyle has a significant impact on skin condition. A diet low in essential fatty acids, insufficient hydration, stress, or lack of sleep can aggravate dry skin.

Conversely, a balanced lifestyle helps improve skin quality and strengthen its natural resistance.

How can you prevent and relieve dry skin?

To limit the causes of dry skin, it is recommended to:

  • use anourishing and moisturizing cream
  • favorskincare productsrich in ceramides
  • adopt gentle cleaning
  • protect the skin from harsh weather conditions
  • maintain good internal hydration

A skincare routine tailored to dry skin helps restore the skin barrier and restore comfort to the skin.

Conclusion

There are many causes of dry skin, both internal and external. Identifying the source of dry skin allows you to take effective action with a targeted skincare routine and a healthy lifestyle. By strengthening the skin barrier and providing the necessary lipids, the skin regains its suppleness, comfort, and radiance.

Back to blog