When your skin is dehydrated it simply means that it is lacking in moisture. The skin usually produces its own moisture in the form of hyaluronic acid and surface oil (sebum), which the skin will naturally produce. However, there are a number of internal and external factors that can disrupt this process, and the skin requires a little extra care. When the complexion becomes dry, it can lead to a number of other concerns whereby its even texture and tone have changed. Dry skin will often lose its natural glow, giving the appearance a dull and lifeless look. The complexion may feel rough, start to become tight, flaky, itchy, red and fine lines can look more noticeable.
What may be causing my dry / dehydrated skin?
Dry skin is a very common concern, and its causes are very common too, including:
- Climate – moisture in the air can assist in helping to stop the complexion from drying out. During winter the air is cold, and contains less humidity. When these conditions combine with a drop in temperature and wind, the skin can start to dry out. On the flip-side, warmer temperatures can draw moisture from the skin. The colder weather also sees us using methods to heat our homes, which not only warms the air, but also decreases its humidity, drying out the air and the skin.
- Hot baths / showers – in the same way that a warmer climate dries out the skin, the high temperatures of a hot shower or bath can also draw moisture from the skin and cause it to feel tight. These luxurious and soothing bathing rituals may feel cosy, but unfortunately they’re not your skin’s best friend.
- Soaps and other household products – certain soaps, detergents or cleaning products can often be harsh on your skin. Many soaps will contain fragrances and other chemicals that strip oil from the surface of the skin, disrupting its natural moisture levels.
- Hard water – many areas around the UK have hard water, which contains higher levels of calcium and magnesium; elements which can dry and irritate the skin.
- Ageing – the natural process of ageing causes a reduction in the amount of collagen that is produced in the skin. Having less collagen will assist in the decline of hyaluronic acid, and as there can also be a reduction in sebum, the skin can typically become dull and dry as we get older.
- Skin conditions – some people are affected by medical skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. In these cases, the skin is naturally prone to dryness, itching, flaky skin and irritation.
- Fluid intake – we are all aware of how drinking plenty of water contributes to the health of the body. The health of the skin also relies on a person drinking plenty of water each day, as when you’re hydrated on the inside, you’re hydrated on the outside too.
What can i do about my dry skin?
If you are finding that you’re affected by dry / dehydrated skin, especially this winter, you would benefit from a visit to Time Clinic in Chigwell. We have a number of treatments available, including: iS Clinical Fire & Ice facial, chemical peels and Profhilo to help refresh the quality and condition of the skin. We stock iS Clinical and Obagi advanced skincare ranges, nourishing the complexion and providing it with exactly what it needs to function well and remain soft, supple and healthy.
Your winter skin doesn’t have to be dull and dry, and under the support and guidance of our trained and experienced practitioners, your complexion can continue to look radiant and glowing.
