All About Dry Skin | Prescription Skincare

Dry skin

What causes dry skin and how to restore your skin barrier

One in three Dutch people regularly suffer from dry skin. Especially in the winter months, the skin feels tight, flakes appear, and no cream seems to truly help. Dry skin is more than just a lack of moisture: it's a sign that your skin barrier is out of balance.

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What is dry skin?

Dry skin (also known as xerosis cutis) is a skin condition in which the skin contains too few fats (lipids) and moisture-binding substances. This prevents it from retaining water effectively, leading to dryness, tightness, and sensitivity.

Healthy skin contains a combination of ceramides, fatty acids, and humectants. When this balance is disturbed, the skin barrier does not function properly, and the skin loses its ability to protect itself.

How to recognize dry skin

A tight or pulling sensation after showering
Flakes or a rough skin texture
Dull complexion or ashen appearance
Sometimes itching or redness

What causes dry skin?

Several factors contribute to dryness:

Climate and seasons: cold, wind, and dry air extract moisture from the skin.
Over-cleansing: washing too often or using harsh cleansers can compromise the natural skin barrier.
Strong active ingredients: acids or retinol without supportive hydration can weaken the skin barrier.
Age and hormonal changes: sebum production decreases, making the skin feel less supple.
Insufficient protection: lack of SPF or nourishing cream makes the skin dry out faster.

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about dry skin

Should I use SPF if I have dry skin?

Yes. UV radiation dries out the skin and disrupts the recovery process. Choose a nourishing sunscreen that protects and hydrates, such as the Shield Cream SPF30.

Can I use active ingredients with dry skin?

Yes, as long as you maintain the balance. Use Glycolic Acid and Retinol Palmitate a few times a week and always combine with the Bisabolol Balm.

How do I prevent my skin from drying out again?

Use mild, pH-neutral products. Apply cream to slightly damp skin and protect daily with SPF.

Why does my skin feel tight after showering?

Your skin feels tight after showering because hot water and soap remove your skin's natural oils: precisely those oils that help retain moisture. Without that protective layer, water evaporates more quickly, and the skin temporarily becomes unbalanced.

Your routine set

Dry skin: the complete routine

This set has been carefully curated by our skin specialists to replenish moisture, restore the barrier, and keep the skin supple. All products work together in one routine — morning and night.

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