8 causes of dry skin
There are numerous causes that may be causing dry skin. The key is to boost moisture levels within the skin, while working on repairing the skin’s barrier.
Being dehydrated
Hydration is your number one tool in the battle against dry skin. If your entire body is dehydrated, your skin will be too. Keep a water bottle on you at all times to remind yourself to stay hydrated.
Essential fatty acids (EFAs)
The human body cannot make EFA’s and therefore must be obtained from your diet. EFA’s are the building blocks of healthy skin cell membranes, critical in keeping skin hydrated, plumper, and younger looking. Good EFA's sources include avocado, nuts and seeds, olive oil, fish and flaxseed.
Diet
Avoid foods that are dehydrating, such as caffeine, alcohol and sugar which can cause or aggravate dry skin. Try our detox and glow herbal tea.
Bathing or hand washing too frequently
Especially if using soaps that contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals that dry out skin. Look for soaps that are fragrance-free.
Certain medications
- diuretics
- laxatives
- antacids
- antihistamines
- blood pressure medication
Gut health
The gut–skin axis is a pathway that connects your gut and skin. Through this connection, your gut microbes send signals to your skin that influence things like skin structure, inflammation, and the production of sebum (the oily, waxy substance normally found on skin).
While eating nutritious food is important, it’s not what you eat but rather what you absorb that is important. Getting your gut health in order is important to ensure you’re absorbing enough of the nutrients required for healthy skin such as – A, C, E, B3, B5 along with the minerals zinc, silica and and omega-3 fats. Book an appointment with your naturopath to see how you can improve your gut health.
Thyroid conditions
The eccrine glands are the major sweat glands located nearly all over your body. These glands secrete certain substances to keep skin hydrated. When your thyroid slows down, there is a decrease in eccrine gland secretion, resulting in dry hypothyroid skin.
Weather
Dry skin is especially common in the winter months. When the humidity level drops, the air outside is cold and dry, water in your skin evaporates more quickly, this makes your skin feel and look dry.
Improve your skin’s barrier function
Restore your skin’s barrier function with skincare containing Niacinamide (vitamin B3). It can help improve your skin's protective barrier by stimulating the synthesis of ceramides within your skin. B3 is found in our Balancing Mist.
Hyaluronic Acid, is a substance found naturally in your skin. HA is a humectant (a substance that retains moisture). The molecule holds a thousand times its weight in water. When applied to the surface of the skin, hyaluronic acid can reduce wrinkles and fine lines. Found in our Hydrating Moisturiser, Ultra Rich Moisturiser and Firming Serum.
References:
What to know about dry skin. Retrieved from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dry-skin#causes
