Dry skin is a common skin condition that shouldn't always be taken lightly. Because it is so common ailment, most people don't concern themselves much and may not even realize that their chapped hands may be a sign of something more serious. Some factors that contribute to this ailment are changes in weather, diet, or disease. It usually appears on the lower legs, arms, or flanks and is characterized by dryness, cracking, or scaly skin.

Dry skin is produced when the skin quickly loses an excessive amount of moisture. In part, dry skin is caused by trans-epidermal water loss, which worsens in older adults.

Dry Skin Conditions - Do I have one?

Dry skin is caused by many factors. Here we mention a few:

Tanning - If you think that tanning can better your acne condition, you should also know that it can also cause dry skin and increase the skin's production of oil. All these are things you don't want to have if you suffer from acne.

Eczema - this is a chronic skin condition characterized by skin inflammation and irritation. Hypothyroidism - An underactive Thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) causes dry skin and delayed wound healing, fatigue, and depression. This is also the most common form of thyroid disease.

Too many vitamins - Consuming too much vitamin A can result in dry skin, nausea, headaches, and other symptoms.

Dermatitis - Dry skin and dermatitis are prevalent during the winter months.

How to Treat Dry Skin Conditions

Most people use cheap dry skin conditioners as an emollient, however, this causes pores to clog and creates new skin problems. The best choice in these situations are natural skin care products which are gentler and more effective than man-made moisturizers. Natural treatments don't only help your condition; you will also be able to avoid any secondary effect s chemical treatments can have on your delicate skin.