Dry skin is a very common skin problem and is often worse during the winter when environmental humidity is low (commonly called, "winter itch"). It can occur at all ages and in people with or without other skin problems.
     What does dry skin look like? Everyone is familiar with the appearance of dry skin. The normally fine lines in the skin become more visible, the skin feels rough and appears matt, dull and flaky. In more severe cases, fish net-like cracks can occur (look like tiny cracks on the upper layer of the skin). Pores are usually small, and because the skin does not provide enough skin oil, it peels or flakes off. The skin color becomes rough, and when the external effect of cold and wind appears, skin become blemished. Take a skin test to determine your skin type.
     What causes dry skin? Dry skin results when there is not enough water in the stratum corneum (This is the layer that peels off after a sunburn) for it to function properly. One way this can happen is when protective oils in the stratum corneum are lost and the water that is normally present in the skin is allowed to escape. Too much soapy water, exposure to harsh chemicals, the normal aging process and certain types of skin diseases are some of the causes of decreased amounts of protective skin oils. As the stratum corneum dries out it shrinks and, as it shrinks, small cracks can occur. Resulting… in what we call, dry skin.
Treatment of dry skin
     An important part of treatment is to identify and correct any and all situations that may be contributing to the dry skin. It is natural to think that applying water alone to dry skin would help control the problem. It does not.  However, water followed by the application of oil such as a Moisturizer is of great benefit for dry skin. The oil in the moisturizer helps trap and seal water in the stratum corneum and make the skin softer, smoother and less likely to become dry, cracked and itchy.
     After washing your face with a Cleanser, quickly and gently pat the skin partially dry with a towel (do not rub!). Within three minutes apply a moisturizer. Cream / moisturizer, can be directly rubbed into the skin after cleansing the skin.
If there’s a way for you to increase the humidity (moisture) level in the air of your home and workplaces, that would be advisable. If not already present, you should consider adding a humidifier to the central heating system of your home. If you use a portable humidifier, make sure it is used in your bedroom at night. Suggestion… if you have dry heat in your home and no humidifier, place a bowl of tap water on top of or near your heater, this should help replenish some of the moisture in the air.
     Use of skin Moisturizers (emollients) for long term controls and prevents dry skin.
Dry skin is usually a long-term problem that recurs often, especially in winter. When you notice your skin beginning to get dry, resume your moisturizing routine and avoid the use of harsh soaps.