Dry body skin is one of the most common skin complaints. It shows as rough, flaky, tight or itchy skin, most often on the lower legs, arms, hands and sides of the torso. On darker skin tones it can look ashy or gray. In most cases the cause is everyday habits and the environment, and steady, simple care brings relief.
Why skin becomes dry
Healthy skin holds water with the help of natural oils and fats in its outer layer. Dryness develops when that layer loses water faster than it is replaced.
| Cause | How it dries skin |
|---|---|
| Cold weather and low humidity | Dry air draws water from the skin |
| Indoor heating and air conditioning | Lower the humidity further |
| Hot, long showers and baths | Remove protective oils |
| Soap and strong cleansers | Strip oils and raise the skin's pH |
| Age | Skin makes less oil from middle age onward |
| Swimming | Chlorine dries the skin |
| Rough or wool clothing | Friction and irritation |
| Some medicines and health conditions | For example diuretics; thyroid problems, diabetes, eczema |
A daily routine for dry skin
1. Change how you wash
- Shower or bathe in warm water for five to ten minutes. See Hot vs Warm Showers: What to Consider for Your Skin.
- Close the bathroom door to keep the humidity in.
- Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser, and only as much as you need.
- Avoid scrubbing with rough cloths or brushes.
- Blot your skin dry.
2. Moisturize at the right time
- Apply within a few minutes of drying off, while the skin is damp. See When to Apply Body Lotion for Your Daily Routine.
- Moisturize again at bedtime, and after washing your hands.
3. Choose a richer product
Creams and ointments work better than lotions for dry skin. Look for:
- Humectants: glycerin, urea, lactic acid, hyaluronic acid.
- Emollients: shea butter, ceramides, plant oils.
- Occlusives: petrolatum, dimethicone, mineral oil, lanolin.
Urea and lactic acid also soften rough, scaly skin. They can sting on cracked skin. Body Lotion vs Cream vs Butter: Key Differences compares textures.
4. Protect your skin through the day
- Wear gloves for washing dishes and cleaning, and outdoors in cold weather.
- Choose soft, breathable fabrics, such as cotton, next to the skin.
- Use a fragrance-free laundry detergent, and skip fabric softener if your skin is itchy.
- Apply lip balm.
5. Add moisture to the air
A humidifier in the bedroom helps when heating makes the air very dry. Clean it as the maker directs.
Relieving the itch
- Apply a cool, damp cloth to the itchy area.
- Moisturize instead of scratching.
- Keep your nails short.
- Keep the room, and your bed, cool.
- Ask a pharmacist about anti-itch creams if you need more help.
What to avoid
- Very hot water.
- Deodorant soaps and fragranced or alcohol-based products.
- Scrubs on dry, sore skin.
- Sitting close to fires and heaters.
- Rubbing the skin dry.
Dry or dehydrated?
On the body, the two usually go together: the skin lacks both oil and water. A product that contains humectants as well as oils addresses both. For the difference on the face, see Dry Skin vs Dehydrated Skin: Key Differences.
How long until skin improves?
With the routine above, skin often feels more comfortable within a few days and looks smoother within one to two weeks. Keep going after it improves, because dryness returns when the habits stop.
When to see a doctor
Dry skin sometimes needs medical attention. See a doctor or dermatologist if:
- Skin does not improve after two weeks of careful moisturizing.
- You have red, inflamed, scaly or oozing patches.
- Itching stops you sleeping, or you itch without visible dryness.
- Skin cracks and bleeds, or shows signs of infection.
- Dryness comes on suddenly, or with other symptoms such as tiredness or weight change.
Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and an underactive thyroid can cause dry skin and are treatable.
For the cold months, see Winter Body Care: A Routine for Dry Skin.
Related on ArniSun
- Body Lotion vs Cream vs Butter: Key Differences
- When to Apply Body Lotion for Your Daily Routine
- Winter Body Care: A Routine for Dry Skin
- Hot vs Warm Showers: What to Consider for Your Skin
- Dry Skin vs Dehydrated Skin: Key Differences
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Why is my skin so dry even though I moisturize?
Hot showers, harsh soap, a product that is too light, or applying it to fully dry skin are common reasons. Switch to a cream, apply it to damp skin and moisturize twice a day.
What is the best ingredient for very dry body skin?
Thick creams and ointments with petrolatum, glycerin, shea butter, ceramides or urea are reliable choices.
Does drinking water cure dry skin?
Staying hydrated is good for health, but dry skin is mostly caused by water loss from the skin's surface. Moisturizer and gentler washing help more.