Dry Skin: Causes, Treatments & Prevention Tips

dry skin on face

Dry skin is a common concern that affects many of us, and it often requires more attention than we realise. If you've been struggling with dry, flaky, or irritated skin, you're certainly not alone, and we're here to guide you through it.

In this in-depth article, we'll explore the recognisable signs of dry skin, effective treatments, key ingredients to look for, and introduce you to some remarkable products that might be the answer to your skincare prayers. Among them are MotherSage's award-winning CBD body oil and CBD body butter, designed to rejuvenate and nourish your skin in a way that feels luxurious yet natural.

So, whether you're a skincare novice or a seasoned enthusiast, join us as we unlock the secrets to achieving healthy, hydrated skin. Your journey to smoother, more radiant skin begins here!

 

What's Causing Your Dry Skin?

In order to effectively treat dry skin, it's important to understand what's causing it. Here are the main causes of dry skin:

  • Harsh Soaps. Using strong, chemical-laden soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness.
  • Hot Water. Long, hot baths or showers can strip away the skin's protective oils, causing it to become dry and irritated.
  • Winter Weather. Dry, cold air can deplete moisture from the skin, making it prone to dryness and flakiness.
  • Central Heating. Artificial heating indoors can reduce humidity levels, leading to dry skin.
  • Low Hydration. Not drinking enough water can contribute to dry skin, as it needs hydration from within.
  • Eczema. Atopic dermatitis, a form of eczema, can cause dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
  • Medical Conditions. Certain medical conditions like kidney disease can result in dry skin due to water loss.
  • Environmental Factors. Exposure to harsh climates, such as desert regions, can lead to dryness.
  • Age. As we age, our skin produces less oil, making it more prone to dryness and wrinkles.
  • Genetics. Some individuals have naturally drier skin due to their genetic makeup.
  • Overwashing. Washing the skin too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, leading to dryness.
  • Allergies. Sometimes your skin can be sensitive to certain chemicals, fragrances, or other ingredients present in your skincare products, household cleaning products, or even laundry detergent, and these allergies can lead to dry, irritated skin. 

 

dry skin causes

 

Common Symptoms of Dry Skin

Dry skin is very common and typically nothing to worry about, beyond the cosmetic concerns or slight discomfort it causes. Here are the most common symptoms of dry skin: 

  • Itchiness. At the forefront of dry skin symptoms is the persistent urge to scratch. This itching often emerges when the skin is parched and crying out for moisture.
  • Flakiness and Scaling. When skin is thirsty, it tends to display flaky or scaly patterns. These textured patches are often quite visible, especially on prominent areas like the face, hands, and legs.
  • Redness and Sensitivity. Moisture-deprived skin can become inflamed, leading to redness. Moreover, it can be more sensitive, causing discomfort or even a stingy sensation upon touch.
  • A Feeling of Tightness and Coarseness. One distinctive feature of dry skin is a taut feeling, often accompanied by a coarse texture. Unlike hydrated skin, which feels supple, dry skin lacks that soft and smooth finish.
  • Cracked Appearance. The extreme end of the dry skin spectrum can manifest as visible cracks, primarily seen on the hands, feet, and lips. These fissures can be more than just unsightly; they can be painful, and in some cases, even bleed. 

 

what causes dry skin

Struggling with dry lips, too? Check out our guide to getting rid of dry lips here. 

 

When to See a Dermatologist

We all know that itchy feeling, the tightness, redness, and those flaky patches which scream “I need moisture!” But sometimes, there's more to the story than just dry skin. Here are some signs that it might be time to reach out to a professional:

  • Persistent Dryness Despite Regular Moisturizing. Regular application of moisturizers usually provides relief. However, if the dryness refuses to subside, it may be indicative of conditions like atopic dermatitis or a possible deficiency in essential fatty acids.
  • Excessive Thirst Coupled with Dry Skin. While dehydration can certainly lead to dry skin, if you also find yourself excessively thirsty and visiting the restroom more often, this might point toward conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease, both of which can affect the body's hydration balance.
  • Widespread Dry Patches. Discovering dry areas in multiple, sometimes unexpected, regions of your body can be concerning. Such symptoms might suggest the onset of autoimmune conditions, including systemic lupus erythematosus or even psoriasis.
  • Sudden Sensitivity to Familiar Products. If you notice that your skin suddenly reacts adversely to products you've trusted for years, this heightened sensitivity could be a sign of contact dermatitis or an allergic reaction due to specific ingredients.
  • Targeted Dryness in Specific Areas. Prolonged dryness, particularly in areas like the palms or soles of the feet, might be more than just skin deep. This could be symptomatic of conditions like hypothyroidism or certain genetic disorders.

 

Treating Dry Skin Naturally: A Guide to Radiant, Hydrated Skin

Here are the best ways to hydrate your skin at home:

  • Use Moisturisers and Emollients. The first line of defense! A good moisturiser not only hydrates your skin but also locks in moisture. Look for natural ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, and yes, the increasingly popular CBD! CBD is known for its skin-soothing properties, making it an excellent addition to moisturisers for added hydration without making your skin greasy. Remember, you can apply your moisturising cream or oil to damp skin to trap in moisture.
  • Try CBD Skincare. CBD oil and CBD-infused skincare products can be a game-changer. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, a few drops of CBD can help soothe redness, itching, and irritation often associated with dry skin.
  • Try Oatmeal Baths. Nothing screams relaxation like a warm bath, right? Take it up a notch by adding colloidal oatmeal. Oats are a natural moisturizer, and when grounded and added to your bath, they leave your skin feeling silky smooth. Just blend raw oats in a blender until you get a fine powder, sprinkle it into your bath, and enjoy a soothing soak.
  • Use Wet Wraps. If you have extremely dry or flaky patches, wet wraps can be a lifesaver. Apply a thick layer of your favorite natural moisturiser (remember our friend CBD?), dampen a cloth with lukewarm water, wring it out, and then wrap it around the affected area. Leave it on for about 20 minutes. This technique helps the moisturiser penetrate deeper into the skin.
  • Add Aloe Vera to Your Skincare Routine. The goodness of nature packed in a plant! Aloe vera gel is a natural hydrator that can calm dry, irritated, or itchy skin. Use it directly from the plant or buy a pure aloe vera gel product. It's cooling, refreshing, and your skin will thank you.
  • Diet and Lifestyle. Remember, what you put inside your body is as crucial as what you put on it. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Add foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts to your diet. These healthy fats help maintain the skin's lipid barrier, crucial for keeping your skin hydrated. Also, try to reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, as they can dehydrate your skin.

 

 

Your Quick Guide to the Best Ingredients for Dry Skin

Dry skin can sometimes feel like a daily battle. But armed with the right ingredients, you're on the path to soft, hydrated skin. Let's explore these miracle workers:

Hyaluronic Acid

  • What it is: A powerful humectant naturally found in the skin.
  • Why it's great: It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it a hydration hero. It pulls moisture from the air, ensuring your skin remains plump and dewy throughout the day.
  • Where to find it: Hyaluronic acid serums, lotions, and cleansers.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

  • What it is: A non-psychoactive component derived from the hemp plant.
  • Why it's great: Apart from its calming properties, CBD offers rich moisturization, helping to soothe and reduce dryness-induced irritation.
  • Where to find it: CBD oil, CBD balm, CBD bath salts.

 

 

Hemp Seed Oil

  • What it is: A nourishing oil extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant.
  • Why it's great: It's packed with fatty acids and vitamins, making it a perfect moisturizer that doesn't clog pores.
  • Where to find it: Facial oils, body oils, lotions.

Almond Oil

  • What it is: A nutrient-rich oil derived from sweet almonds.
  • Why it's great: Known for its soothing properties, it hydrates and softens the skin while providing a dose of Vitamin E.
  • Where to find it: Facial oils, body oils, lotions.

Jojoba Oil

  • What it is: A liquid wax extracted from the seeds of the jojoba plant.
  • Why it's great: Its structure closely resembles our skin's natural oils, allowing it to absorb quickly and deeply moisturize without leaving a greasy residue.
  • Where to find it: Facial oils, body oils, lotions.

Shea Butter

  • What it is: A creamy fat derived from the nuts of the shea tree.
  • Why it's great: Renowned for its deep moisturizing abilities, shea butter seals in hydration and leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth.
  • Where to find it: Body butters, face creams, lip balms.

Ceramides

  • What it is: Lipids (fats) that are found naturally in the uppermost layers of skin.
  • Why it's great: They reinforce the skin's barrier, preventing moisture loss and protecting against external aggressors.
  • Where to find it: Serums and face/body creams.

Glycerin

  • What it is: A humectant used in many skincare products.
  • Why it's great: It attracts moisture from the air and locks it into the skin, ensuring a hydrated and soft complexion.
  • Where to find it: Serums and face/body creams.

Squalane

  • What it is: A hydrocarbon derived from plants or animals, often olives or sugarcane.
  • Why it's great: Mimics our skin's natural oils, providing deep hydration without the greasy after-feel.
  • Where to find it: Serums and face/body creams.

 

12 Tips to Prevent Dry Skin

Prevention is better than cure! Here are a few things you can do to help keep your skin soft and smooth all year round: 

  1. Stay Hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Hydrated cells lead to hydrated skin!

  2. Avoid Hot Showers and Bubble Baths. Opt for warm water and mild soaps instead. Hot water, harsh soaps, and bubble baths can strip the skin of its natural oils, making your skin dry and tight.

  3. Moisturize Regularly. Apply a quality moisturizer immediately after showering or washing your hands to lock in moisture.

  4. Choose the Right Products. Opt for skincare products specifically designed for dry skin. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and jojoba oil.

  5. Humidify Your Space. Using a humidifier, especially during the dry winter months, can help maintain the skin's moisture balance.

  6. Limit Exfoliation. While exfoliating can be beneficial, overdoing it can strip the skin. Stick to gentle exfoliation once a week.

  7. Protect Against the Elements. In cold weather, wear gloves and scarves. During sunny days, apply sunscreen. Protecting your skin from harsh conditions can prevent excessive drying.

  8. Avoid Harsh Soaps. Choose mild, fragrance-free soaps and cleansers. Harsh soaps can remove the skin's natural oils.

  9. Eat Omega-Rich Foods. Incorporate foods like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts into your diet. They contain omega fatty acids that promote healthy skin.

  10. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine. Both can be dehydrating, so consume in moderation and balance with plenty of water.

  11. Wear Breathable Fabrics. Opt for natural materials like cotton, which allow your skin to breathe and reduce potential irritation.

  12. Watch Your Home's Temperature. Keeping your home's heating moderate during winter can help prevent the air from becoming too dry, which can, in turn, cause the "winter itch" and dry out your skin.

 

 

The Path to Silky, Hydrated Skin

Navigating the realm of skincare and discovering the ideal ingredients for dry skin might feel overwhelming. But with the right knowledge and products in your arsenal, achieving supple, radiant skin becomes an attainable dream.

As we wrap up our guide, we must highlight two transformative products from MotherSage that have been nothing short of game-changers for many.

MotherSage CBD Body Butter. Let this velvety, CBD-infused treat be your skin's best friend. Not only does it deeply hydrate and repair, but its natural formula also targets problem areas, rejuvenating saggy skin and visibly reducing stretch marks. Say goodbye to greasiness, and hello to improved flexibility and a renewed smoothness.

MotherSage CBD Body Oil. Infuse your skin with the luxury it deserves. This rich blend, encompassing Almond and Jojoba Oil with hints of Geranium and Vitamin E, brings together the magic of CBD with the soothing aromas of Ylang Ylang and Lavender. It's not just oil; it's a sensorial experience that uplifts your spirit while bestowing your skin with a luminous glow. Suitable for all, this body oil promises nourishment without any greasy residue.

Your skin is your canvas. So why not adorn it with the best? Dive into a world of hydration and indulgence with MotherSage's award-winning CBD body oil and CBD body butter. You deserve it, and so does your skin.

 

Shop the full MotherSage CBD range for dry skin >

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