Dry Skin

Dry skin is the result of underactivity of the sebaceous glands. But when exhibited in younger individuals, it is predominately hereditary. The layers of the stratum corneum are thinner, promoting greater stress for this skin type. The protective barrier is somewhat compromised and becomes more difficult to retain water, which in turn causes dehydration. The primary culprit is the lack of oil. Without sufficient amounts this 'cellular cement', the top layer doesn't retain the cells, hence the thinner skin. Likewise, the amount of water retained is also impaired.

Aside from genetics, dry skin is also the consequence of the normal aging process. With the progression of time, all bodily functions begin to slow. Cellular turnover, the time it takes for new cells to journey from the germinative to the stratum layer, is greatly reduced. At the same time the skin's water retaining abilities have diminished, resulting in thinner and dryer skin over time.

Dry skin tends to be filled with tiny, superficial lines, and usually prone to wrinkles. Pores are almost invisible; there is less elasticity and poorer skin tone, as well. Dry skin problems are exacerbated by exposure to the sun, heat, wind and dramatic shifts in temperature.