Dry skin

Causes & Prevention

There are Several Common Causes of Dry Skin

Common causes of dry skin include:

  • Dehydration when the oil glands do not supply enough lubrication to the skin.
  • Certain genetic conditions.
  • Poor diet and nutritional deficiencies, especially deficiencies of vitamin A and the B vitamins.

Tips on Preventing Dry Skin (Xerosis)

Dry skin, or Xerosis, results when the skin, which needs adequate moisture, is unable to retain the amount of moisture it needs.

Xerosis is especially common during the winter in cold climates, because central heating is very drying to the skin. The problem is complicated by simple daily routines, such as bathing and towel drying, which may actually remove moisture from the skin. Modifying bathing routines will help preserve the skin's moisture.

What Does It Mean When Medical Experts Say "Race" Is A Risk Factor For Certain Diseases?

Editor's Note:

"Race" is sometimes mentioned as a risk factor in the development of certain cancers and a number of other diseases. When you read this in a discussion about an illness, note that the explanation seldom refers to anything biological. Instead, it usually refers to behavior, such as eating habits. The kinds of behavior usually mentioned as risk factors are culturally determined. They are not genetic or biological.