What Causes Dry Skin & How to Treat It Like a Skincare Expert

Dry skin is more than just occasional flakiness—it is a condition that affects the skin’s protective barrier, making it more vulnerable to irritation, environmental damage, and premature aging. While many people experience dry skin at different points in life, chronic dryness requires a deeper understanding of its causes and targeted treatment. This guide explores the science behind dry skin, expert-approved treatments, and how to keep your skin optimally hydrated.

Understanding Dry Skin

Dry skin, or xerosis, occurs when the outermost layer of the skin (stratum corneum) lacks sufficient moisture and lipid content. This weakens the skin’s barrier function, leading to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), where moisture evaporates from the skin faster than it can be replenished. When this happens, the skin becomes prone to tightness, rough texture, redness, and discomfort.

What Causes Dry Skin?

Several factors contribute to dry skin. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Impaired Skin Barrier Function

   The skin’s natural lipid layer helps retain moisture. When this barrier is compromised due to harsh skincare products, over-exfoliation, or genetic predisposition, the skin loses hydration and becomes more sensitive.

2. Environmental Aggressors
   • Low humidity in winter or air-conditioned environments depletes the skin’s moisture levels.
   • Prolonged sun exposure damages collagen and depletes natural lipids, reducing the skin’s ability to retain moisture.
   • Pollution and free radicals contribute to oxidative stress, weakening the skin barrier and increasing dryness.
3. Skincare Habits That Worsen Dryness
   • Harsh cleansers containing sulfates and alcohol strip the skin of its natural oils.
   • Long, hot showers break down the lipid barrier, leading to increased moisture loss.
   • Over-exfoliation, especially with high-concentration acids, disrupts the skin’s protective layer and worsens dryness.
4. Age-Related Lipid Decline

   As the skin ages, it produces less sebum and ceramides, which are essential for moisture retention. This makes mature skin more susceptible to persistent dryness, fine lines, and a rough texture.

5. Underlying Skin Conditions

   Eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea weaken the skin barrier, making it difficult to retain hydration. Managing these conditions requires specialized dermatological care.

6. Internal Hydration and Nutritional Deficiencies
   • Dehydration reduces the skin’s ability to maintain moisture balance.
   • A diet low in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and ceramides contributes to dryness.
   • Excessive caffeine and alcohol intake can accelerate internal dehydration.
7. Medications That Contribute to Dry Skin

   Certain medications, such as retinoids, diuretics, and antihistamines, have drying effects by increasing cell turnover or reducing oil production.

Expert-Recommended Treatments for Dry Skin

1. The Skin Barrier with Hydrating Ingredients
   • Hyaluronic acid to attract and retain moisture.
   • Ceramides that can restore the skin’s protective barrier.
   • Glycerin and panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) to soothe and hydrate dry skin.
   • Squalane and fatty acids to mimic the skin’s natural oils and enhance moisture retention.
2. Use a Gentle, pH-Balanced Cleanser

   A non-foaming, sulfate-free cleanser removes impurities without stripping moisture. Ingredients such as cucumber extract, aloe vera, and oat kernel extract help soothe the skin.

3. Moisturize Immediately After Cleansing

   Applying a ceramide-rich moisturizer while the skin is damp helps lock in hydration. For extremely dry skin, layering an occlusive agent like shea butter or petroleum jelly over a moisturizer creates a protective seal.

4. Limit Exfoliation and Avoid Harsh Scrubs

   Exfoliation should be limited to once or twice a week using polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) or lactic acid, which gently remove dead skin cells without irritating the skin. Scrubs with large, abrasive particles should be avoided, as they can cause microtears.

5. Protect the Skin from UV Damage

   Daily application of broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30-50) is essential to prevent further barrier damage. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide provide effective protection without irritation.

6. Use a Humidifier

   Indoor heating and air conditioning reduce humidity levels, accelerating skin dehydration. A humidifier helps maintain an optimal hydration balance in the environment.

7. Maintain Internal Hydration and Nutrient Levels

   Drinking adequate water is important, but so is consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts) and vitamin E (almonds, avocados, spinach) to support skin hydration and repair.

Preventing Dry Skin: Dermatologist-Approved Daily Habits

• Keep showers short and use lukewarm water to prevent stripping the skin’s natural oils.
• Avoid skincare products with alcohol, sulfates, and artificial fragrances.
• Apply hydrating serums first, followed by moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning.
• Wear soft, breathable fabrics, as wool and synthetic fibers can irritate dry skin.
• Use fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products to reduce the risk of irritation.

Why Hamsa Hydration Face Serum is a Game-Changer for Dry Skin

Hamsa Hydration Face Serum is formulated with dermatologist-approved ingredients to repair, replenish, and protect dry skin.

• Hyaluronic acid complex hydrates multiple layers of the skin.
• The ceramides reduce the loss of moisture b making the skin barriers strong.
• The fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula is suitable for daily use.
• All the products of Hamsa are dermatologist-tested and do not have parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances

A skincare routine focused on hydration and barrier repair can transform dry skin into a healthy, radiant complexion. With the right ingredients and habits, long-term hydration and skin resilience are achievable.