Edmonton Dermatology | Understanding Dry Skin
Welcome back to Edmonton Dermatology’s YouTube channel. Today, we’re discussing a common issue that affects almost everyone—dry skin. My name is Karen, and I’m here with Andrea, a registered LPN at our center.
Dry skin is something we’ve all experienced, especially in Alberta’s cold winters. It typically manifests as rough, flaky patches on hands, arms, and sometimes other areas like the back, chest, legs, and face. This condition tends to make the skin feel itchy, and it often worsens in winter when the air is drier. However, it’s not limited to winter; dry skin can appear year-round.
Causes of Dry Skin
The environment is the primary cause of dry skin. It draws moisture from our skin, which is our body’s natural barrier against external elements. The skin’s function is to protect us, but environmental factors often take moisture away, leaving skin dehydrated. To counteract this, it’s crucial to focus on retaining skin hydration.
How to Prevent Dry Skin
Hydration is key. Drinking water regularly throughout the day is essential, though it can be challenging for those with busy schedules. Keep a water bottle nearby and take a sip whenever you can. Applying moisturizer is equally important. Moisturizers create a barrier that locks water into the skin, preventing environmental factors from depleting skin moisture.
Consuming water-rich foods like vegetables and fruits also contributes to skin hydration. Additionally, drinking water regularly, especially when you feel thirsty, helps relieve dryness from within.
Conditions Associated with Dry Skin
Dry skin can lead to conditions such as eczema, or dermatitis. Eczema causes extreme dryness, itchiness, redness, and soreness, often resulting in a persistent “itch-scratch” cycle. This cycle can worsen the inflammation, leading to more itching and spreading of eczema. Using the right moisturizer is crucial to breaking this cycle. If you experience severe dry skin or eczema, consulting a dermatologist can provide relief and effective treatment.
Other Conditions That Cause Dry Skin
Certain conditions, like rosacea, can exacerbate dry skin, especially on the face. Rosacea involves dilated blood vessels that lead to increased water loss, making skin drier than usual. Moisturizers specifically designed for rosacea can help, and it’s essential to keep skin hydrated.
Psoriasis, an autoimmune condition, is another internal cause of dry skin. It’s genetic, meaning it originates from within rather than from environmental exposure. When skin loses hydration due to these conditions, maintaining a regular moisturizing routine is essential.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Dry Skin
If you have a single persistent dry patch that peels repeatedly, it may indicate a more serious concern, such as a precancerous lesion. These lesions are often red, rough, and resistant to moisturizers. If you notice such a patch, consult your physician for evaluation, and they may refer you to a dermatologist.
Exfoliating Dry Skin
Exfoliation varies based on skin type. Oily skin can tolerate monthly exfoliation, while dry skin requires caution. Over-exfoliating dry skin can cause microscopic cuts and increase infection risk. For safe exfoliation, consider professional treatments like microdermabrasion, which gently removes dead skin cells. At Edmonton Dermatology, we use sterile, single-use tools for each patient to ensure a clean, safe experience.
Choosing the Right Moisturizer for Dry Skin
The choice of moisturizer depends on your skin’s condition. If your skin feels slightly dry, a light, fragrance-free moisturizer will suffice. Fragrance-free options are better as they contain fewer chemicals that might irritate the skin. For those with conditions like rosacea, specialized moisturizers are available. If you’re unsure, a consultation with a dermatologist can help determine what’s best for your skin.
For eczema-prone skin, opt for body moisturizers containing urea. This ingredient is highly effective in treating body dryness. However, facial skin requires a gentler approach, so consult your dermatologist for recommendations.
Complimentary Consultations
We offer complimentary consultations for assessing skin concerns. Take advantage of this service to learn about your skin’s needs and find effective solutions. While consultations are free, our dermatologists require a referral.
When to Apply Moisturizer
Moisturizing should ideally happen twice a day: once in the morning and once at night. If you shower in the morning, apply moisturizer immediately afterward to lock in moisture. Warm water and steam from the shower open pores, allowing moisturizer to penetrate more effectively. For evening routines, apply moisturizer before bed, which allows your skin to absorb it overnight.
If you shower at night, follow the same principle—apply moisturizer after the shower and again in the morning. Consistency is key to maintaining hydration and keeping your skin healthy.
Conclusion
Thank you for joining us on this topic about dry skin. For more skincare tips and advice, subscribe to the Edmonton Dermatology YouTube channel and leave any questions or comments below. We’re here to help you achieve healthy, hydrated skin. Don’t forget to stay connected for more helpful videos.