Sensitive Skin
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Sensitive Skin
Authored by
Pavesan Naidoo Msc (c) pharmaceutical science B.Pharm
Published 1st May 2025
What is Uneven Skin Tone and Texture: Dyschromia and Keratinization Disorders
Xerosis cutis, commonly known as very dry skin, is a frequent dermatological issue arising from a compromised skin barrier and a reduction in the water content of the stratum corneum, the outermost skin layer. This loss of hydration and barrier function leads to skin that feels excessively dry, rough, and scaly, and may sometimes be itchy. Clinically, the severity of xerosis cutis exists on a continuum, ranging from mild dryness (xeroderma) to more significant problems like cracking and deep fissures (rhagades). Several factors can worsen this condition. Environmental variables, such as low humidity and the use of harsh soaps (surfactants), can strip the skin of moisture. The natural aging process also contributes, as skin tends to become less efficient at retaining hydration over time. Furthermore, underlying health conditions, whether they are other skin disorders like atopic dermatitis (eczema) or systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and inherited conditions like ichthyoses, can significantly exacerbate xerosis cutis.
Understanding Dry and Dehydrated Skin
Xerosis cutis, or very dry skin, happens because the outer layer of our skin, like a protective wall, isn't working as well as it should and doesn't have enough water. This wall relies on a mix of fats, natural moisturizers, and tiny glue-like structures that hold skin cells together. When things go wrong with these, our skin gets dry, rough, and flaky, and sometimes itchy.
Think of the skin's outer layer like a brick wall. The fats are the mortar holding the bricks (skin cells) together, keeping water in. The natural moisturizers inside the bricks act like sponges, soaking up and holding water. The glue holds the bricks together so they shed properly.
In dry skin, there might not be enough "mortar" being made, so the wall is weak and water escapes more easily. Also, the "sponges" inside the bricks aren't as plentiful or effective at holding water. Plus, the "glue" holding the bricks together might not break down correctly, leading to a build-up of old skin cells that look like flakes.
Things that can cause these problems or make them worse include getting older (our skin naturally makes less oil and holds less water), dry air (which sucks moisture out of our skin), and harsh soaps that wash away the skin's natural fats. Even ongoing skin problems can mess with how our skin makes its fats and moisturizers, leading to very dry skin. So, it's a combination of our skin's own workings not being quite right and outside things making it even harder for our skin to stay moisturized.
Treatment strategy
Dealing with dry skin effectively often involves understanding how different creams and treatments work to restore your skin's natural balance. Think of your skin's outermost layer as a protective wall; when it's healthy, it keeps moisture in and external irritants out. This wall relies on essential fats and natural moisturizing factors within the skin cells. When skin becomes dry, it's often because this barrier is compromised and these natural moisturizers are depleted.
Fortunately, our skincare products are specifically designed to address these underlying issues. One key strategy involves products designed to replenish the skin's natural fats, much like repairing the "mortar" in a wall. Ingredients such as ceramides and cholesterol, which are naturally found in your skin, help to rebuild this protective layer, making it more effective at retaining moisture.
Another important approach involves products designed to boost the skin's natural ability to hold water. Certain ingredients, like urea, glycerin, and PCA, act as humectants, essentially attracting and binding water to the skin cells, much like tiny sponges. This helps to rehydrate the skin and improve its overall feel.
Sometimes, dry skin can appear flaky due to a buildup of dead skin cells that aren't shedding properly. Products designed to gently exfoliate help to address this, encouraging the natural turnover of skin cells and revealing smoother, more hydrated skin underneath.
Furthermore, dry skin can sometimes be accompanied by irritation. In these cases, treatments designed to include calming and anti-inflammatory ingredients can be beneficial, helping to soothe the skin and support the recovery of a healthy barrier function.
