Skin dryness is something most people face at least once in their lives. But when it becomes persistent, uncomfortable, or visibly flaky, many begin to wonder, “Why Your Skin Gets Drier?” The truth is, dryness isn’t caused by one single factor. It often results from a combination of environment, lifestyle, products, and even natural changes within the skin itself.
In this guide, you’ll learn the exact reasons behind dryness, how to repair it, and which products actually help. Plus my top 3 personal favourite, specially recommended for dehydrated skin.
What Dry Skin Really Means
Dry skin occurs when your skin fails to produce or retain enough natural oils. These oils, or lipids, play a vital role in supporting your skin barrier. When your barrier is weakened, moisture escapes easily, leading to tightness, flaking, and irritation.
The Science Behind Moisture Loss
Healthy skin contains a mix of water, oils, and natural moisturizing factors. When one of these is disrupted, whether from harsh products or cold weather, your skin can’t lock in hydration. This results in trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), the scientific term for when water evaporates from your skin faster than it should.
Hidden Reasons Why Your Skin Gets Drier Over Time
1. Damaged Skin Barrier
Your skin barrier is like a protective shield made of lipids, ceramides, and natural oils. When this shield is damaged, it can’t hold moisture well, so water escapes and irritants enter.
What damages your barrier?
- Over-exfoliating
- Using too many active ingredients at once (AHA/BHA, retinoids, vitamin C)
- Harsh cleansers
- Hot showers
- Stress and lack of sleep
2. Dehydration vs. Dryness
Dehydrated Skin (Lacks Water)
Even oily skin can be dehydrated. This usually happens due to environmental factors (air-cond, weather), caffeine, not drinking enough water, or using products that strip moisture.
- Dehydrated skin lacks water, while dry skin lacks oil. Many people have both.
Dry Skin (Lacks Oil)
This is more of a skin type. Dry skin naturally produces less sebum.
- Most people actually have both, so they need hydration and moisturization.
3. Medical Conditions & Medications
Sometimes dryness isn’t just skincare, it’s your health.
Skin Conditions
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Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Weak barrier, inflammation, extreme dryness
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Psoriasis: Thick scales, rapid skin turnover, inability to retain moisture
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Seborrheic Dermatitis: Flaky, dry patches but oily at the same time
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Ichthyosis: Very dry, fish-scale-like skin texture
These conditions disrupt the skin’s natural ability to hold moisture.
Medications that can make your skin drier:
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Retinoids (Retinol, Tretinoin, Adapalene): Speed up cell turnover, causing initial peeling
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Benzoyl Peroxide: Effective for acne but can strip moisture
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Isotretinoin (Accutane): Severely reduces oil production
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Diuretics: Reduce body water
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Antihistamines: Dry out mucous membranes and skin
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Certain antidepressants & acne meds
If your medication is drying your skin, it doesn’t mean you need to stop it, just adjust your skincare to compensate.
My Top 3 Favourite Products for Dry Skin
1. Beauty Of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser
A gentle, hydrating cleanser that cleans your face without stripping it.
2. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum
A powerful moisture-binding serum that helps rehydrate dehydrated skin layers.
3. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 Moisturiser
Perfect for repairing the skin barrier and soothing dry, irritated areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why Your Skin Gets Drier as you age?
Because oil production decreases and collagen breaks down.
2. Can hot water damage your skin?
Yes, it strips natural oils quickly.
3. What ingredients should I avoid?
Alcohol-heavy toners, harsh scrubs, and strong fragrances.
4. Is dry skin the same as dehydrated skin?
No. Dry skin = lack of oils. Dehydrated skin = lack of water.
5. How often should I moisturize?
Twice daily, or more if needed.
6. Can diet help improve dryness?
Yes, omega-3s and antioxidants support your skin barrier.
Conclusion
Dry skin can be frustrating, but understanding why your skin gets drier gives you the power to fix it. By choosing the right products, protecting your skin barrier, and adopting simple habits, you can keep your skin soft, smooth, and deeply hydrated year-round.
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