What should you know about dry skin care?

Dryness occurs when the outer barrier loses water faster than it can retain it. Weather, air conditioning, hot showers, frequent washing, harsh cleansers, and some medicines can contribute. Persistent scaling, cracking, itch, or inflammation may point to asteatotic eczema, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, or another problem rather than simple dryness.

The distribution matters: hands may be affected by repeated washing, while shins and elbows can become rough from friction or low humidity. Note triggers and whether the skin improves when irritants are removed.

Use lukewarm water, keep bathing brief, and choose a fragrance-free cleanser only where needed. Pat the skin dry and apply an ointment or cream immediately; emollient therapy helps reduce water loss by supporting the barrier. Reapply after handwashing and whenever tightness returns. Wear gloves for wet or chemical tasks, avoid scratching, and introduce one new product at a time.

Book a review if dryness is widespread, repeatedly cracks or bleeds, interferes with sleep, or fails to improve with consistent barrier care. Seek prompt help for painful redness, pus, fever, rapidly spreading rash, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty. A clinician can distinguish eczema or psoriasis from uncomplicated dryness and prescribe treatment when needed.

Is there a skin condition behind my dryness? Which cleanser, cream, or ointment should I use? How often should I moisturise? Could a medicine, workplace exposure, or allergy be contributing?