Dry Skin CareRead Time: 3 minutes
People with dry skin have distinct needs for moisturizers. Products that hydrate and help the skin retain moisture are ideal. However, many products are labeled suitable for dry skin when they don’t contain the ingredients needed to properly hydrate the skin. Learn the right ingredients to look for in a moisturizer to prevent using the wrong products and further damaging the skin.
What causes dry skin?
Many people are surprised to learn that common, everyday products can cause dryness. Products and substances that lead to dryness are soap, fragrances, hard water, and acne medications. Hard water is an environmental issue caused by traces of magnesium, zinc, and lead in the water. Using a home filtration system can help reduce high amounts of these minerals. Likewise, some acne medications contain ingredients that dry out a pimple and the surrounding, like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid.
Dry skin could be genetics
Studies have shown that genetic mutations of the filaggrin gene cause eczema and several other dry skin conditions. Although people cannot control the genetic composition, the type of skin care products can aid in providing great hydration. Many dermatologists suggest using gentle soaps and fragrances with non-irritants. Look for soaps made specifically for gentle skin and fragrances that contain soothing ingredients.
This is a brief listing of some of the more important ingredients to look for when searching for the right type of skin care product. There are numerous botanicals that can also provide hydration, so this list is not all-inclusive.
Butters derived from natural beans such as cocoa and shea butter. Cocoa butter contains fatty acids that form a protective layer over the skin to lock in moisture and elasticity. Like cocoa butter, shea butter also heals dry skin. Easily absorbed by the body, it protects the skin from sunburn, itchiness, and improves the appearance of stretch marks.
Vitamins C & E
Vitamin C is packed with antioxidants to protect the skin from sun damage and free radicals. Vitamin C can also increase collagen production to repair damaged skin. Another antioxidant, vitamin E, shields the skin from harmful UV rays and stimulates sebum production.
Glycolic acid is a natural exfoliant made from sugarcane. This acid strips away dead skin cells allowing the skin to absorb moisture.
Lactic acid has alpha hydroxy acids that slough away dead skin cells. Different than glycolic acid, lactic acid also helps with collagen production.
The aloe vera plant provides a natural extract that can be applied directly to the skin. Aloe vera helps soothes irritation and redness, this is also commonly used for sunburned skin.
Seeing a dermatologist
When suffering from chronic dry skin, before starting a skincare regimen make an appointment with a dermatologist. Providers can help patients get prescription products with these special ingredients and learn other ways to treat dry skin.