Dry skin is a common, and uncomfortable skin condition that is characterised by itching, scaling, and cracking that can occur due to several reasons. Dry skin can be a result of genetic outcome, environment, habits that strip natural oils from the skin, abrasive skincare or even consumption of certain medication.

There are 2 common medical conditions that present as facial dry skin, namely:

• Contact dermatitis: contact dermatitis occurs due to an allergic reaction when an irritant meets the skin. Some of these irritants may include metal (such as silver, and gold), detergents, and cosmetic products.
• Eczema: eczema is a skin condition that refers to dry, red, and itchy patches of skin. In severe cases, eczema can cause the skin to crack, especially when it comes into contact with irritants. When the skin cracks, it makes it more vulnerable to infections.

Occasionally, it is enough to use hydrating moisturisers, or lotions to rehydrate the skin. However, severe dry skin can lead to bleeding because the skin’s protective mechanism has been compromised, and it requires medical attention to prevent the condition from worsening.

Dry skin, or xerosis, primarily occurs when the skin’s natural moisture barrier is compromised, leading to a disruption in the lipid matrix of the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin. This barrier typically functions to retain moisture and protect against environmental aggressors. When it is impaired, trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) increases, which causes the skin to lose moisture faster than it can be replenished.

The lipids and natural moisturising factors (NMFs) within the stratum corneum, such as ceramides, cholesterol, and free fatty acids, play a critical role in maintaining hydration by attracting and holding water. When these components are deficient or damaged, the skin becomes unable to retain sufficient moisture, leading to dryness, flaking, and a rough texture. Additionally, the reduced water content in the skin can impair enzymatic functions necessary for the normal shedding of dead skin cells, further contributing to a dry and scaly appearance.

You may have dry skin if you have the following symptoms:

• Bleeding.
• Cracked skin.
• Flaky, or scaly skin.
• Itchiness.
• Lighter, or darker hues of skin patches.
• Redness.
• Rough texture.
• Skin rash.
• Tight feeling.

Dry skin can easily be mistaken for ageing skin, or combination skin types. If you are keen on learning how to distinguish dry skin from other skin types, then do contact us today to speak with one of our esteemed doctors.

In Singapore, there are certain groups of people who are more prone to dry skin, such as:

• Age: people who are 65 years old, and older are at risk of developing dry skin.
• Excessive scrubbing: people who excessively scrub their skin are at an increased risk of developing dry skin.
• Genetic conditions: people with hereditary conditions such as kidney diseases, or diabetes are more likely to develop dry skin as it interferes with the body’s hydration.
• Health conditions: people with a family history of allergies, and eczema are at an increased risk of developing dry skin.
• Medical treatment: people who are undergoing certain medical treatments, such as cancer, dialysis, or taking some medications, can increase the likelihood of developing dry skin.
• Occupation: people who often work outdoors, such as contractors, or gardeners, are more susceptible to dry skin.
• Swimming: people who often swim in chlorinated pools are prone to dry skin.

While dry skin is easily diagnosed with a visual examination, our doctors make it a priority to provide a thorough diagnosis to formulate an effective, and unique treatment plan to improve your dry skin.

The diagnosis process generally entails:

• Initial consultation: our doctors will have a thorough conversation with you to understand your medical history, family history, background, and skincare journey. This will help them have an overview of possible causes for your dry skin.
• Visual examination: a visual examination consists of looking for signs of dryness, flakiness, redness, and cracking skin. Additionally, our doctors will also touch your skin to get an idea of its texture, and the extent of its dryness.

• Lifestyle assessment: by understanding lifestyle factors such as stress exposure, habits, occupation, and skincare routine, our doctors will be able to determine if your dry skin is lifestyle-induced.
• Medical history: because dry skin can be caused by certain medical conditions, it is important for our doctors to be aware of this fact to help them create a comprehensive treatment plan.

Dry skin is treated through a series of medical facial treatments. Although most medical facial treatments focus on restoring hydration, the type of treatment, and number of treatments will depend on the extent of your dryness.

At Harmony Therapeutics, some of the treatment options that we offer are:

• Regenerativ Facial: regenerative facial is excellent at penetrating multiple layers of skin, and restoring hydration with the use of ultrasound waves. The ultrasound waves ensure that ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, and collagen-rich DMAE gel are absorbed through all the layers of the skin. Aside from incorporating a thorough cleansing, and extraction to remove impurities, the treatment ends with a soothing sheet mask to give your skin that instant hydration boost.
• Restorativ Facial: our restorative facial uses the AQUAPURE system to gently cleanse the skin to remove impurities, such as dead skin cells. By using a process known as electroporation, the active ingredients are penetrated deep into the skin to restore hydration and suppleness. The treatment also includes a double mask to help repair dry skin. This leaves the skin looking more nourished, refreshed, and youthful.
• Vitality Facial: the AQUAPURE facial system is a universal medical facial that suits all skin types, especially dry skin. What is even more unique about our Vitality facial treatment is that it uses Uniform Spray Control Technology to evenly distribute active ingredients to remove impurities that have taken root deep within the pores. With its gentle cleansing and intensive nourishment, this facial treatment is the go-to treatment for anyone looking for a quick pick-me-up.
  If you would like to learn how our treatments can help improve your skin concerns, then do get in touch with us to learn which treatments will offer you the best results.