DRY SKIN - SYMPTOMS, TRIGGERS & TREATMENTS
Dry, itchy, irritated skin? Don’t let it get you down. The skin is very good at looking after itself when given the right conditions. A whole host of factors can aggravate the skin, causing an imbalance in the skin’s delicate microbiome. Let’s find out what could be making your skin act up, and the changes you can make to give it the TLC it deserves. We’ve rounded up just a few common causes of skin dryness:
ECZEMA & PSORIASIS - These are common skin conditions characterised by areas of dry, itchy and inflamed skin. Eczema is a form of chronically dry skin which causes very itchy, cracked or sore patches. Psoriasis often appears as a distinct area of red, dry skin with a defined border, and is caused by an overproduction of skin cells building up on the surface. It can be difficult to differentiate between the two, so ask your GP so that you can be clear on the best course of action.
IRRITATION & ALLERGIES - A change in the environment can have a big impact on your skin. From windy days to central heating, these external changes can draw moisture out of your skin and leave it feeling dry and uncomfortable. The products you use on your skin can also cause a flare-up of dry skin. Harsh chemicals, colourants and perfumes can irritate skin, stripping back the oils needed to stay nourished. In extreme cases, this may even present itself as an allergic reaction in the skin. Next time you notice a flare-up, try keeping note of the products you’ve used that day to find the root cause.
AGEING - Our hormones change as we age, meaning that skin becomes thinner and produces less of the natural oils needed for the skin to retain hydration. The rate at which our skin cells renew also decreases, leading to reduced microbiome function as you grow older. Use skincare products that are rich in antioxidants, fatty acids and vitamins to restore the nourishment your skin has been lacking, and even reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
DEHYDRATION - We know that keeping hydrated is very important for our overall health. In extreme cases, dehydration can result in dizziness, dry mouth and even fainting. But, a lack of water doesn’t just affect our body, it can cause changes to our skin. Dehydrated skin can appear dull and become itchy and irritated. Keeping up with those all important 8 cups a day will help maintain a good level of hydration, helping to keep your skin happy and healthy.
GENETICS - Like it or not, your skin type is usually down to our genes. Whether you’re naturally dry, oily or combination, this is likely down to your parents and the genes they have passed on. Some common skin conditions can be a result of a genetic predisposition, rather than external factors. Get to know your skin really well - what it reacts well with, what it absolutely doesn’t like, what you might be lacking. While you can’t do anything to change your genes, understanding your skin and what it needs will help you maintain good skin health.
SUN DAMAGE - When your skin is exposed to UV rays for too long, this leads to skin cell damage as well as skin dryness. Make sure to always layer up on SPF if you know you’re going to be out in the sun. But, this doesn’t just apply when you’re outside. If you sit by a window in the office all-day, the rays are still able to penetrate the skin. Not sure if you really need it? Check the weather report in your area for information on the UV levels that day - a rating of 3 or above means you should seriously consider using an SPF.
The Intensive Rescue Range is packed with skin-loving naturally-active ingredients to nourish, hydrate and protect skin. Our triple-action formulas work to rejuvenate, soothe and protect the skin, while 72 hour moisture-locking technology keeps all the good stuff soaked in for even longer. Break the itch-scratch cycle with soothing skin ingredients, such as Aloe Vera, Eucalyptus Leaf Oil and Oat Extracts. Are you ready to say goodbye to dry skin?
