What causes dry skin and how to restore your skin barrier

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

What is dry skin?

Dry skin (also called xerosis cutis ) is a skin condition in which the skin lacks enough lipids and moisture-binding substances . As a result, it cannot retain water effectively, leading to dryness, tightness, and sensitivity.

You recognize dry skin by:

A tight or pulling feeling after showering
Flakes or rough skin texture
Dull complexion or gray appearance
Sometimes itching or redness

Healthy skin contains a combination of ceramides, fatty acids, and humectants . When this balance is disrupted, the skin barrier doesn't function properly, and the skin loses its ability to protect itself.

What causes dry skin?

There are several factors that contribute to dryness:

Climate and seasons: Cold, wind and dry air draw moisture from the skin.
Over-cleansing: Washing too often or using harsh cleansers can damage the skin’s natural barrier.
Strong active ingredients: Acids or retinol without supporting 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 causes the skin to dry out faster.

Our recommendations for dry skin

For those who suffer from dryness, Prescription Skincare has developed a complete solution:

Dry Skin - Skin Concern Set

This set has been carefully formulated by our skin specialists to replenish moisture, restore the barrier and keep the skin supple, without irritation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use active ingredients on dry skin?
Yes, as long as you keep the balance.
Use Glycolic Acid and Retinol Palmitate only a few times a week and always combine with a moisturizing and barrier repair cream such as the Bisabolol Balm.

How do I prevent my skin from drying out again?
Use mild, pH-neutral products and avoid harsh cleansers that damage the skin barrier. Moisturize daily, apply your cream to slightly damp skin, and protect with SPF to prevent further dehydration.

Why does my skin feel tight after showering?
Your skin feels Tightness after showering because hot water and soap strip your skin of its natural oils—the very oils that help retain moisture. Without that protective layer, water evaporates more quickly, temporarily unbalancing the skin.

Should I use SPF if I have dry skin?
Yes, absolutely! Sun protection is essential for dry skin, too. UV rays can dry out the skin, cause premature aging, and disrupt the natural healing process.
So choose a nourishing, hydrating sunscreen. This protects against harmful UV rays and nourishes the skin with hydrating ingredients, without leaving a tight feeling.