My skin looks rough and dull: what should I know?

When the outer layer loses water, fine flakes can collect and the surface feels less smooth. Heavy products, sweat and dead-cell buildup may make pores look more noticeable. Repeated rubbing, shaving or strong active ingredients can create irritation that leaves a rough feel. Sun exposure can gradually affect texture and tone; read Sun-Damaged Skin for related changes. Roughness limited to elbows, knees or other body sites may have different causes from facial texture.

Wash with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser, then apply moisturiser to damp skin. Avoid grainy scrubs, picking and using multiple exfoliants together. If you add an exfoliating ingredient, introduce one product slowly and stop if stinging, redness or peeling develops. Use daily sun protection on exposed areas. A clinician may consider a Chemical Peel for selected concerns, but the skin should be stable and the treatment matched to your tone and history.

Seek advice if roughness is painful, intensely itchy, inflamed, bleeding, crusted or confined to a spot that is changing. Arrange a review when a simple routine has not helped or when texture appears with widespread rash, hair loss or other new symptoms. A clinician can distinguish dryness from dermatitis, follicular problems or a lesion needing closer inspection.

What is making my skin feel rough: dryness, irritation, blocked follicles or another condition? Which exfoliant is suitable, if any? How should I prepare my skin before a peel or other procedure?