Causes of dry skin all over the body

Dry skin is a skin condition in which the skin is unable to retain natural moisture. This will result in a feeling of tightness, itching and flakiness. Dry skin can affect people of all ages and can occur anywhere on the body. It is more common on the arms, legs and face.

There are many causes of dry skin on the body. They have been mentioned below.

Causes of dry skin

The first cause of dry skin all over the body is weather. Cold, dry air can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dry skin. Hot showers and baths can also remove the skin’s natural oils leading to dryness. This is true especially if the showers are long. Aging also takes its toll on the natural oil production, which leads to dry skin.

There are certain medical conditions like psoriasis and eczema that can cause dry skin. There are some medications like diuretics that can lead to dry skin. The above reasons cause dry skin all over the body.

Now we have to know how dry skin effects the way we look.

Effects of dry skin.

Dry skin can led to itching, which can be very uncomfortable, especially in areas like the arms, legs and hands. When the skin is dry, wrinkles and fine lines appear more prominent. This can make a person look older than their age.  

Dry skin can lead to flaking and peeling. This can be unsightly and embarrassing. Dry is sensitive. This makes it more vulnerable to damage. Hence it is more sensitive to irritants and harsh chemicals.

Since dry skin can crack, the cracks can provide a pathway for bacteria and viruses to enter the body. This can cause infection. Therefore it is important to find solution for dry skin all over the body.

How to prevent dry skin?

To treat dry skin it is important to keep the skin hydrated and moisturized. You will need to take a few steps to achieve this.

The first step that you can take is to use a gentle fragrance free moisturizer. Apply the moisturizer immediately after showering or bathing. This will help to lock the moisture. On the topic of showering avoid hot showers and baths. Use lukewarm water instead and limit the time you spend in the shower or bath.

Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air can help keep the skin hydrated. Another important step to take is to drink plenty of water. Keeping the body hydrated from inside can help to prevent dry skin.

Finally avoid harsh soaps and detergents. Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps and detergents to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils.

Now if the above measures are not effective then you will have to visit a doctor. This will rule out any underlying medical condition. In some cases creams and ointments prescribed by the doctor can help treat dry skin.

In conclusion

There are many causes of dry skin all over the body. This includes weather, hot showers, aging, medical conditions and prescription drugs that you use.
To treat dry skin you will have to keep the skin hydrated by using a moisturizer, avoid hot baths, use a humidifier and drink plenty of liquids.
If these measure don’t seem to work then it is best to visit a doctor to rule out any underlying medical condition.