Dry Skin

What is dry skin? 

Dry skin happens when the skin does not hold enough moisture or natural oils to stay soft, smooth, and protected. It can feel tight, rough, flaky or itchy, and often looks dull or irritated. When the skin becomes very dry, small cracks may form and movement or facial expressions can feel uncomfortable.

Dry skin is common in Australia because of our weather, strong sun and time spent in heated or air-conditioned indoor spaces. It is not a serious condition, but it can affect day to day comfort and make other skin features more noticeable, such as fine lines or uneven texture.

What causes dry skin? 

Cause #1 – Loss of skin barrier function
The outer layer of the skin works as a protective barrier. When this layer becomes weakened from ageing, over-cleansing or using harsh products, moisture escapes and irritants can enter. This often leads to dryness and sensitivity.

Cause #2 – Weather and climate
Low humidity, cold temperatures, wind and indoor heating can draw moisture out of the skin. These conditions are common triggers for dry skin.

Cause #3 – Harsh products or over-cleansing
Foaming cleansers, strong exfoliants, soaps and alcohol-based products can remove natural oils. This disrupts the skin’s protective barrier and leads to dryness.

Cause #4 – Ageing
As we get older, the skin makes less sebum and loses natural lipids. The skin also becomes thinner. These changes reduce the skin’s ability to hold moisture.

Cause #5 – Underlying skin conditions or medications
Eczema, psoriasis and some medical treatments such as retinoids or diuretics can contribute to dryness as a side effect.

Why do I have dry skin and others don’t? 

Factor #1 – Genetics
Some people naturally produce less oil or have thinner, more delicate skin. This can make them more prone to dryness even when their routine or environment is similar to others.

Factor #2 – Environment
Living in a dry, windy or sun-exposed climate affects moisture levels in the skin. Time spent in air-conditioning or heated indoor spaces can have the same effect.

Factor #3 – Product usage
Cleansers or skincare products that are too strong for your skin type can strip natural oils and weaken the barrier. This often leads to dryness and irritation.

Factor #4 – Age and hormones
Hormonal changes across life stages influence how much oil the skin produces. During menopause, oil production slows and the skin holds less water, which can lead to dryness.

Factor #5 – Lifestyle and diet
Low water intake, frequent alcohol use or a diet low in essential fatty acids can influence hydration from within and make dryness more noticeable.

The impact of dry skin 

Dry skin affects more than just how your face feels.

Common concerns include: 

• Flaking or rough texture that shows under makeup 
• Increased appearance of lines, pores, or dullness 
• Itching, discomfort, or sensitivity 
• Makeup not sitting smoothly or products stinging when applied 
• More reactive skin prone to redness or irritation 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: What’s the best treatment for dry skin in Australia? 
A: It depends on what is causing the dryness. Some people need support with their skin barrier. Others benefit from changes to their skincare, lifestyle or environment. If dryness is more persistent, a non surgical medical consultation can help you understand what may be suitable for your skin. A qualified healthcare professional can assess your concerns and guide you through options that may support hydration and comfort.

Q: Can dry skin be fixed permanently? 
A: Dry skin is influenced by many factors like climate, hormones, and product choices. With the right daily care and support from a qualified practitioner, most people can keep it comfortable and well managed.

Q: Should I exfoliate dry skin? 
A: Exfoliation may be suitable for some people, but it is not right for everyone. It is safest to speak with a qualified healthcare professional first. They can help you understand whether exfoliating products are appropriate for your skin and how often to use them.

Q: What ingredients should I avoid if I have dry skin? 
A: It is best to check with a qualified healthcare professional before removing any products from your routine. Certain ingredients like drying alcohols, harsh foaming agents, strong exfoliants, or added fragrance may not suit people with dry or sensitive skin, but the right approach depends on your individual concerns and skin barrier needs.

Q: When should I see a professional? 
A: If dryness doesn’t improve with skincare, or if it’s accompanied by redness, cracking, or inflammation, see a qualified clinician to rule out conditions like eczema or dermatitis.