Dry skin: what can it be?

Expert answer:

Dry skin is a sign that the skin has lost its protective layer of fat, which works as a natural moisturizer. The main causes of dry or dry skin are:

  • Hot and long baths, with sponge and lots of soap;
  • Sun exposure without sunscreen;
  • Wind;
  • Cold;
  • Pollution;
  • Chemicals (pool chlorine, personal care products, household cleaning or working).

In addition to external factors, skin dryness can also be caused by:

  • Skin diseases such as allergies;
  • Excessive sweating;
  • Genetic diseases;
  • Alteration of the thyroid gland, especially in women;
  • Menopause.

Malnutrition and anemia also leave the skin dry, especially in children. In such cases, hair they are also very dry, without an apparent cause.

O aging is another factor that leaves the skin dry due to years of exposure to the sun and the body's own natural aging.

It is important to note if the skin dryness is temporary or remains, because if it persists it can be a sign of skin cancer and hypothyroidism.

If your skin is dry, you can try to avoid certain situations as described above or seek the family doctor, general practitioner or dermatologist for a complete evaluation and identification of the possible causes of dry skin.

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