What causes dry skin?

Dry skin can develop from a combination of environmental, lifestyle, and medical factors. In many cases, several causes contribute at the same time.

Climate plays a major role. Tucson’s hot, dry desert environment can pull moisture from the skin very quickly. Low humidity levels reduce the amount of water in the outer layer of the skin, making dryness more common throughout the year. Wind and sun exposure can further weaken the skin barrier. Ultraviolet (UV) exposure can accelerate skin damage and moisture loss. Sun damage weakens collagen and affects the skin’s ability to retain hydration over time.

Frequent bathing or washing can also contribute to dry skin. Hot showers, harsh soaps, and over-cleansing strip away the skin’s natural oils. While cleansing is important, excessive washing can leave the skin vulnerable to irritation and dehydration.

Aging is another major factor. As people get older, the skin naturally produces less oil and becomes thinner. This makes mature skin more likely to become dry, itchy, and fragile.

Certain skincare products may worsen dryness. Products containing alcohol, strong acids, fragrances, or exfoliating ingredients can irritate sensitive skin and disrupt the moisture barrier when overused.

Medical conditions may also cause or worsen dry skin. Eczema, psoriasis, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and nutritional deficiencies can all affect skin hydration and barrier function. Some medications, including acne treatments and blood pressure medications, may contribute to dryness as well.

Lifestyle habits can influence skin health. Dehydration, smoking, poor nutrition, and chronic stress may all impact the skin’s ability to maintain moisture and repair itself properly.

How is dry skin diagnosed?

Dry skin is usually diagnosed through a clinical skin examination and discussion of symptoms. A dermatologist will evaluate the appearance, texture, and severity of the skin changes while also reviewing lifestyle habits, skincare routines, environmental exposure, and medical history.

During the examination, the dermatologist looks for signs such as scaling, redness, cracking, inflammation, or thickened skin. They may ask questions about itching, sensitivity, recent product use, weather exposure, and whether symptoms worsen during certain seasons.

In many cases, dry skin can be diagnosed visually. However, persistent or severe symptoms may require additional evaluation to rule out underlying skin conditions or medical causes. Some patients who believe they simply have dry skin may actually have eczema, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, or another inflammatory skin condition.

Patch testing or additional medical evaluation may sometimes be recommended if allergic reactions or chronic skin irritation are suspected. Blood testing may occasionally be necessary if hormonal or metabolic conditions are contributing to ongoing dryness.

Accurate diagnosis is important because not all dry skin responds to the same treatment approach. Identifying the underlying cause helps guide effective skincare recommendations and treatment strategies designed to restore the skin barrier and improve long-term skin health.

At Avant Dermatology & Aesthetics, patients in Tucson and Beverly Hills receive personalized dermatologic care tailored to their skin type, environment, and individual concerns. Proper evaluation and treatment can help restore hydration, reduce irritation, and improve the overall health and appearance of dry skin.

Led by board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained cosmetic and Mohs surgeon Dr. Sheila Farhang, the experienced provider team at Avant Dermatology & Aesthetics includes board-certified dermatologist Dr. Roshni Rawlani and certified physician assistant Jennifer Briner, PA-C. Together, they provide comprehensive medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with a personalized approach to patient care. If you or a loved one is struggling with dry skin, schedule an appointment today.