Dry Skin Treatment

If your skin feels dry, flaky or cracked, it may be struggling to hold onto moisture and protect itself. At Schweiger Dermatology Group, our dermatologists and dermatology specialists are here to help. We provide personalized care and advanced treatments to tackle the causes of dryness, restoring hydration and improving your skin’s overall health.

What is Dry Skin?

Dry skin, or xerosis, occurs when the skin lacks essential moisture to maintain its protective barrier. This condition can result from environmental factors, lifestyle habits or underlying skin conditions. It may lead to discomfort, itching or scaling and is often exacerbated during certain seasons.

Symptoms of Dry Skin

Symptoms of dry skin can vary depending on its severity and cause. Common signs include:

  • Rough, scaly, or flaky patches.
  • Cracks or fine lines that are sometimes accompanied by bleeding.
  • Itching, redness or irritation.
  • Tightness or discomfort, especially after washing.
  • A dull or ashy appearance.

If these symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a dermatologist or dermatology specialist is recommended to prevent further complications.

Types of Dry Skin

Dry skin manifests in various forms, influenced by different triggers and underlying factors. Identifying the type of dryness helps determine the most effective treatment.

Seasonal Dry Skin

Seasonal dry skin is commonly experienced during winter or in low-humidity environments. It results from environmental changes that reduce skin hydration.

Causes of Seasonal Dry Skin include:

  • Cold weather reduces natural oil production.
  • Indoor heating, which strips moisture from the air.
  • Rapid transitions between cold outdoor air and warm indoor air.

Chronic Dry Skin

Chronic dry skin persists over time and may signal an underlying issue, requiring intervention from a dermatology provider.

Causes of Chronic Dry Skin include:

  • Aging skin that produces fewer natural oils.
  • Medical conditions like eczema or hypothyroidism.
  • Genetic factors that impair the skin’s moisture barrier.

Contact-Induced Dry Skin

Contact-induced dry skin occurs due to exposure to substances that irritate or dry out the skin.

Causes of Contact-Induced Dry Skin include:

  • Frequent handwashing with harsh soaps.
  • Prolonged exposure to cleaning chemicals.
  • Reactions to skincare products with drying ingredients.

How is Dry Skin Diagnosed?

Diagnosing dry skin involves a thorough evaluation of your skin and medical history. A dermatologist or dermatology provider may:

  • Assess environmental and lifestyle factors contributing to dryness.
  • Examine your skin for signs of underlying conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis.
  • Recommend patch testing if an allergic reaction is suspected.

This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.

How is Dry Skin Treated?

Effective treatment for dry skin focuses on restoring hydration, repairing the skin’s protective barrier and addressing any underlying causes. At Schweiger Dermatology Group, we offer treatments tailored to your skin’s specific needs:

  • Moisturizers and Emollients: Hydrating creams or ointments with ingredients like ceramides or glycerin to lock in moisture.
  • Prescription Topicals: Steroid or non-steroidal creams to reduce inflammation and exfoliating treatments for thicker skin.
  • Advanced Hydration Treatments: Deep-penetrating moisturizers and light therapy to restore moisture and improve skin hydration.
  • Lifestyle and Environmental Adjustments: Personalized skin care routines and tips for protecting skin from environmental factors.
  • Nutritional and Hydration Counseling: Recommendations for a skin-friendly diet and ensuring proper hydration.
  • Ongoing Monitoring and Support: Regular follow-ups to track progress and adjust treatments accordingly.

Dry Skin Treatment at Schweiger Dermatology Group

Take the first step toward healthier, more hydrated skin. Our dermatologists and dermatology specialists will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that addresses your dry skin concerns. To make an appointment, call or text (844) DERM-DOC / (844) 337-6362 or book your appointment online.

Reviewed by Dr. Jason H. Miller.

FAQs

  • 1. What causes dry skin to worsen in winter?

    Winter air is colder and drier, while indoor heating reduces humidity, both of which strip moisture from your skin.

  • 2. Can diet affect dry skin?

    Yes, insufficient intake of essential fatty acids or hydration can contribute to dryness. A dermatologist or dermatology provider may recommend dietary adjustments.

  • 3. Are over-the-counter moisturizers effective for dry skin?

    Many can help, but persistent dryness may require a dermatologist-recommended product with specific ingredients like ceramides or urea.

  • 4. When should I see a dermatologist or dermatologist specialist for dry skin?

    If dryness persists despite at-home care or is accompanied by severe symptoms, like cracking or bleeding, consult a dermatologist or dermatology provider.

About Schweiger Dermatology Group

Founded by Dr. Eric Schweiger in 2010, Schweiger Dermatology Group began as a single office in Midtown Manhattan with a mission to deliver high-quality dermatologic care without long waits. As demand grew, so did the practice. Today we have over 120 locations across 8 states with more than 400 of the nation's leading providers and were ranked as the number one practice nationally in cosmetic and reconstructive care by Castle Connolly. In 2023, we broadened our expertise by integrating allergy care into our services. We remain committed to offering exceptional medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology as well as comprehensive allergy services, ensuring patients receive expert care in a modern, state-of-the art environment.

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