Caring for Dry and Sensitive Skin - Encyclopaedia UK

Skin type characterized by a lack of moisture and a heightened reaction to external irritants, requiring gentle and hydrating skincare products.
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Application
Dry Skin Care | Sensitive Skin Products | Skincare For Dryness | Dry Sensitive Skin Care | Skin Hydration
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

Dry And Sensitive Skin FAQ

Can dry skin cause sensitive skin?

"As mentioned, having dry skin can also ultimately lead to experiencing symptoms of sensitive skin, since having less moisture reduces how protected the skin is from external irritants," explains Dr. Jih. "In addition, rosacea, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, and photodermatosis, a light-dependent skin reaction, can lead to sensitive skin."

What is sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin is a common condition characterized by skin that becomes easily red, swollen, or otherwise irritated. A number of things can lead to flare-ups, such as allergies or rosacea. Fortunately, there are many treatments. They include over-the-counter and prescription creams, oral medication, or minor procedures.

What causes dry skin?

Dry skin, also known as xerosis or xeroderma, has many causes, including cold or dry weather, sun damage, harsh soaps, and overbathing. You can do a lot on your own to improve dry skin, including moisturizing and practicing sun protection year-round. Try various products and skin care routines to find an approach that works for you.

How does dry skin affect your skin?

Dry skin changes the texture of your skin from soft to rough. This can cause your skin to feel itchy or change color from your normal skin tone. You can have dry skin patches, which are small areas of dry skin, or dry skin could affect a larger area of your skin.

What is skin sensitivity?

Skin sensitivity is defined by the occurrence of specific symptoms that include burning, tingling, itching, tightness, redness and pain in response to stimuli that normally would not cause these reactions. These responses develop when the skin barrier—the protective outermost epidermal layer—is weakened.

Is dry skin a symptom of a medical condition?

Your doctor may suggest that you have some tests to see if your dry skin is being caused by a medical condition, such as an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Often, dry skin is a symptom of another skin condition, such as dermatitis or psoriasis.

Dry And Sensitive Skin References

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