Why is my skin so dry? Factors affecting your skin’s hydration level
Ah, dry skin in winter… Who hasn’t experienced that? In winter, skin feels like sandpaper, and on top of that, it screams for help! Whether it’s from those frosty winds or the dry air from radiators – the fact is, our skin is crying out for rescue. From my perspective, as someone who spends hours daily making sure my clients’ skin looks beautiful and healthy, I have a few thoughts for you. Ready for a short journey into the secrets of hydration?
Why does skin get driest in winter?
Imagine: it’s winter, snow outside, you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket, but your skin isn’t enjoying itself nearly as much. In winter, air humidity drops – just like the number of cookies in a box after the holidays! The skin loses its natural barrier, and the epidermis literally leaks water. I remember one of my clients once telling me that after returning from the mountains, her face was literally burning from dryness. Of course, a moisturizing cream is essential, but humidity at home? Even better! It’s worth investing in a humidifier so you don’t wake up in the morning feeling like you’ve just crossed the Sahara.
Oh! And forget about hot, steamy showers. Yes, they’re tempting, but the way hot water destroys the natural lipid barrier is painful! Opt for lukewarm baths, and your skin will thank you. Mine? I learned this after many experiments.
How do harsh soaps, detergents, and long showers affect the skin?
I’ll be honest, harsh soaps are the ultimate villain when it comes to skin. The chemicals in them are like an army that strips our skin of its natural oils. I remember when I first started experimenting with different products in the salon, and the soaps that were supposedly “the best” made my clients’ skin feel as rough as wrapping paper. Now I know that gentle, moisturizing cleansers are key – especially those designed with sensitive skin in mind. And yes, I only use those now!
Laundry detergents? Another culprit. It’s just a shame it’s such an invisible enemy – who would think that clothes could irritate the skin? I recommend gentle products without unnecessary fragrances. And thorough rinsing! Those are my golden rules.
And showers? Ah, who doesn’t love a long, relaxing time under a warm stream of water. But seriously, remember – the longer you stand there, the more you dry out your skin. It’s like exposing yourself to winter wind without gloves – there’s no chance your skin will come out of it unscathed.
How does genetics affect dry skin?
Oh, genetics can be tricky! I remember my grandmother telling me she always had dry skin, and then it was my turn. Yes, unfortunately, genes are stronger than the best moisturizing cream. If you’re prone to dry skin because it runs in the family, then sadly – you can’t fight it, you just have to live with it. But it can be done with style! The key is the right skincare, like creams with emollients, and, important, drinking water! Because dry skin isn’t just about what’s on the outside but also what’s on the inside.
Of course, you can’t change your genes (although, who knows, maybe in the future?), but you can learn how to take better care of your skin. And remember – my advice? Don’t forget a healthy diet and the right creams!
The impact of diseases like thyroid issues, diabetes, and malnutrition on dry skin
Yes, some diseases do whatever they want to your skin – and not in a good way. A friend of mine with thyroid problems complained that her skin had become so dry it could easily compete with the desert. In cases of hypothyroidism, the skin becomes dry, flaky, and just loses its vitality. Diabetes doesn’t help either – high blood sugar levels cause the skin to lose water faster than we reach for a second slice of cake. Keeping the skin hydrated in such cases is crucial, along with using dermocosmetics that really work.
Not to mention malnutrition – what you eat has a huge impact on how your skin looks. A lack of vitamins, especially A, E, and omega-3, makes your skin literally scream for help. That’s why I always emphasize that a healthy diet is half the battle in caring for beautiful skin. I speak from experience because since I’ve been paying more attention to what I eat, my skin finally feels the way it should.
So my advice – if you’re dealing with dry skin due to health reasons, be sure to talk to your doctor and find skincare products that really work. Your skin deserves the best care.
