WHAT IS DRY SKIN?
Dry skin is one of the most common skin concerns — and one of the most misunderstood. It's not just about applying more moisturiser. True dry skin involves a compromised skin barrier, reduced natural oil production, and often a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Understanding what's really happening in your skin is the first step to lasting relief.
What Is Dry Skin?
Dry skin (clinically known as xerosis) occurs when the skin lacks sufficient moisture in its outer layer. Unlike dehydrated skin (which is a temporary condition caused by lack of water), dry skin is a skin type — meaning the skin produces less sebum (natural oil) than normal or oily skin types. This reduced oil production makes it harder for the skin to retain moisture and maintain a healthy barrier.
Common Symptoms of Dry Skin
- Tightness, especially after washing
- Rough, flaky, or scaly texture
- Itching and irritation
- Dull, lacklustre appearance
- Fine lines that appear more pronounced
- Cracking or peeling, particularly on hands, feet, and lips
- Redness and sensitivity
Common Causes of Dry Skin
- Genetics — dry skin often runs in families
- Age — skin produces less oil as we age, making dryness more common after 40
- Climate — cold, dry winters and low humidity strip moisture from the skin
- Hot showers — hot water strips the skin's natural oils
- Harsh soaps and cleansers — sulphate-based products disrupt the skin barrier
- Over-washing — frequent washing without moisturising depletes natural oils
- Hormonal changes — menopause, pregnancy, and thyroid conditions all affect skin hydration
- Nutritional deficiencies — low omega fatty acids, vitamin E, and zinc contribute to dry skin
How to Treat Dry Skin Naturally
- Cleanse gently — swap harsh soaps for a Fragrance-Free Castile Bath & Shower Gel that cleans without stripping the skin barrier
- Moisturise immediately after washing — apply Whipped Body Butter within 3 minutes of bathing to lock in moisture
- Use plant oils — Rooibos Tea Body Butter and hemp seed oil closely mirror the skin's own lipids and absorb without greasiness
- For severely dry or cracked skin — apply Intensive Rescue Balm to hands, heels, elbows, and any broken or compromised areas
- Exfoliate gently — use a Foaming Body Scrub 1–2 times a week to remove dead skin cells and allow moisturisers to penetrate more effectively
- Add omega fatty acids to your diet — flaxseed, hemp seeds, and oily fish support skin hydration from within
- Use a humidifier in winter — adds moisture back into dry indoor air
- Avoid hot showers — lukewarm water is far kinder to dry skin
Dry Skin vs Dehydrated Skin
It's worth distinguishing between dry skin (a skin type) and dehydrated skin (a skin condition). Dehydrated skin lacks water and can affect any skin type — even oily skin. Signs of dehydration include dullness, congestion, and fine lines that disappear when you pinch the skin. Dry skin, by contrast, lacks oil and feels tight and rough regardless of water intake.
Related Reading
- Hemp Seed Oil and Skin Conditions
- Understanding Eczema
- Understanding Skin in Senior Years
- How Does Menopause Affect Your Skin?
- Winter Hands & Toes
- Ingredients to Avoid in Personal Care Products
- Hemp Seed Oil for Hormones
- Protein Matters More After 50
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