The Science Behind Dry Skin – What Causes It & How to Restore Moisture

Dry skin isn’t just a seasonal annoyance, it’s often a sign that your skin’s natural barrier is compromised. When the outer layer of your skin (the stratum corneum) lacks the right balance of lipids, hydration, and protective components, it struggles to retain moisture. This leads to flakiness, tightness, sensitivity, and even inflammation.

Why Does It Happen?

Common causes include:

• Cold weather, low humidity, or excessive heat
• Harsh cleansers, over-exfoliation, or long hot showers
• Ageing and reduced sebum or ceramide production
• Skin conditions like eczema, or nutrient deficiencies

At the heart of it all is Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL), when the skin loses more water than it takes in. That’s why simply using a moisturiser isn’t enough. You need ingredients that hydrate, repair, and seal.

3 Keys to Restoring Moisture

• Hydrate from within the skin using humectants like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and sodium PCA.
• Rebuild the barrier with ceramides, cholesterol, and niacinamide.
• Seal in moisture with rich occlusives like shea butter or dimethicone.

If you wish to go deeper and learn how to restore hydration and moisture to dry skin, and what ingredients are best suited, download my 32-page document. You won’t be sorry.

It’s packed with science, ingredient breakdowns, product tips, and real-world formulation guidance.