Dry skin, also known as Xeroderma, is a common skin ailment caused when the epidermal layer loses its moisture due to external factors such as harsh weather conditions and use of harsh chemicals amongst others. Characterised by peeling and cracking of the skin in the affected area, it is often accompanied with itching and a sense of ‘stretching’ of the skin. A common occurrence, its likeliness increases in the winters credit to the dry weather. Although seemingly harmless on its own, it is if often a root cause of a number of other skin related ailments such as dark circles and stretch marks.

The best way to prevent the skin from drying is to keep it well hydrated by drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. This accompanied with a well regimented daily skin care routine can ensure healthy skin throughout one’s life. Every skin care routine must involve thorough cleansing followed by adequate moisturising. For this purpose one can use any skin cleansing lotion or cream available in the market along with a suitable moisturiser.

In order to avoid dry skin and further damage, it is however essential to be very careful while picking out one’s skincare products. Most moisturisers available in the market today contain a derivate of alcohol, which further dries skin. It is therefore recommended to use only natural products and moisturisers contacting natural ingredients such as Jojoba Oil, Aloe Vera, Almond Oil, Sesame Oil etc.

A deficiency of Vitamin E and Vitamin K too at times leads to dry skin. In order to avoid this Dermatologists recommend a diet rich in green leafy vegetables. These vitamins are available as supplements as well and are a component of most multi-vitamin supplements available in the market.

It is thus essential to always apply a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher to avoid sun induced skin damage. Exfoliating skin too helps in removing dead cells and leaving skin looking young and healthy. However contrary to popular belief regular exfoliation is not always recommended. Even though it removes dead cells, it also takes with it essential oils that in turn dehydrating the skin further. People with a tendency for dry skin should thus avoid exfoliating their skin more than once in a week.