Our skin is one of the body`s most important organs. It gives us our sense of touch, regulates body temperature and protects against a myriad of external threats and infections. However, skin dryness can present a problem to many!
Extremely common, dry skin – also known as xerosis – can be very uncomfortable and irritating for some of those who suffer from it, with tight, flaky skin that feels chapped and looks dull.
It occurs due to a failure of the body’s built-in moisturizing mechanism – the stratum corneum.
When this mechanism is not performing at its best, the skin becomes lacking in moisture needed for keeping it soft and supple. Accordingly, the skin becomes parched and aged. Making the condition worse, this dryness can be exacerbated by harsh external factors such as weather, heating and air conditioning. By time, the skin will appear dull, especially on the cheeks and the delicate skin around the eyes, and people might start to notice small expression lines around the corner of the eyes and mouth.
Some people may have naturally dry skin, while others develop it due to certain conditions or diseases. Affecting various age groups, people commonly develop dry skin on their hands, face, legs, elbow, and arm, but it can also occur in other parts of the body.
The general cause of an itchy, dry skin might seem like a no-brainer: Dry skin occurs when our skin lacks moisture. But where does that lack of moisture come from? Causes of dry skin vary, with several contributing factors that can worsen symptoms of dryness. These include:
• Genetics
• Certain medications – especially those that cause the body to lose water
• Hormonal factors
• Reaction to skincare products or makeup
• Existing skin conditions, including dermatitis, eczema, or psoriasis
• Overexposure to ultraviolet sun rays UV rays
• Harsh weather conditions & seasonal changes – hot, cold and dry air may disrupt the skin’s barrier function, causing skin to lose moisture and dry out. This is common in winter when cold, dry air can dry out the skin
• Chlorine – dry skin can occur with frequent contact with chlorine in swimming pools.
Moreover, certain practices related to our daily habits can negatively affect skin hydration:
• Washing too much – Frequent washing, long, hot baths or showers and over-use of hand sanitizers can remove the essential oils that support the skin barrier, causing the skin to become dry, itchy and sometimes red in appearance.
• Lack of a proper skincare routine – it is important to follow a tailored skincare routine and use products that are suitable for dry skin, avoiding harsh soaps and other skincare products that can strip away the skin’s natural oils.
Dry skin symptoms and signs range from mild to severe, and it can vary depending on age, coexisting medical conditions and severity of environmental elements. However, some or all of the following symptoms and signs might appear:
Skin that feels and looks rough
Flaky patches
Dull or matte skin appearance
A feeling of skin tightness, especially after bathing
Itchiness
Redness, burning, or stinging
Fine lines or crepiness in the skin
Calloused, fissured, or cracked skin
Fortunately, dry skin does not have to stay dry forever. If you are already suffering from dry, itchy or flaky skin, there are certain home-care things you can incorporate into your daily routine to boost your skin`s moisture and encourage it overall health.
• Gently does it: Be gentle when washing your body to avoid stripping your skin of its essential natural oils. Hot water can be drying, better wash with lukewarm water.
• Mind your cleanser: Choose a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser specifically formulated for dry skin. Alcohol-based products can exacerbate dryness.
• Beware of over-washing: Over-washing can disrupt your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
• Moisturize regularly: Applying a moisturizer immediately after washing can help lock in moisture. Be sure to choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type.
• Hydrate yourself: Ample water drinking can help to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
• Protecting your skin is a must: Exposure to the sun can dry out the skin. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for optimum protection.
• Opt for soft fabrics: Certain itchy fabrics can irritate and dry out the skin. Choose softer, breathable materials – such as cotton – for pillowcases and clothes.
• A balanced diet is an asset: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish and walnuts, can help to reinforce your skin’s protective layer and keep it hydrated.
• Safeguard your skin: Wear gloves and scarves in the winter.
ULTRA – HYDRATING
Skin feeling a bit lackluster, dry or dull? Our ULTRA-Hydrating treatment will bring new life to your skin by utilizing the most hydrating and repairing ingredients. Exfoliating away the dry, dead skin cells and accelerating the skin’s cellular renewal process, this moisture restorative treatment will help reveal a deeply hydrated, plumper and smoother skin.
ULTRA-Hydrating treatment is recommended for anyone with dry, moisture-depleted skin. This treatment is suitable for men and women of all age groups who wish to restore their skin`s natural moisture at a deep level. Watch your self-confidence skyrocketing as you enjoy a healthy, deeply hydrated, and more youthful skin.
The treatment typically begins with cleansing the skin with a gentle, soothing cleanser specifically chosen for your skin type. Your trusted aesthetician will then massage your face as she applies an exfoliant to gently remove dead skin cells and promote cellular regeneration. After exfoliation, a deep hydrating mask then moisturizes the facial skin from inside out and promotes collagen synthesis. Next, a toner is applied so that your skin can effectively receive the moisturizer. The final step – moisturizing the skin – will leave your skin feeling silky, smooth, and `baby like` soft.
You deserve to pamper yourself and take a break from the hustle and bustle of a busy routine. Sit back, relax, and receive the gift of skin that feels refreshed and nourished. No longer does dry, tight skin has to be a source of worry for you.
Here at WHAM Clinics, we help our clients indulge and hydrate their dry skin to get back to that clear complexion they have been striving for. With years of experience, our skincare experts master the latest and most effective facial treatments for dry skin.
Is your skin thirsty? Quench it with this restorative treatment that will deeply hydrate AND brighten your skin complexion.
Say “yes” to a pool of skin moisture. Say “yes” to a healthier, more radiant, and deeply hydrated skin. Say “yes” to a vibrant, more confident you.! Reach out and speak with a member of our dedicated team and take those first stirring steps of your journey to beauty today.
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