Your complete guide to understanding dry, flaky, itchy skin and how to restore comfort with a gentle cleanse-and-care routine.
Dry skin is something almost everyone experiences at some point, but when dryness becomes persistent, flaky, itchy, or uncomfortable, it may be more than just dehydration — it may be xerosis.
Xerosis is a common skin condition affecting people of all ages, including babies, adults, and seniors. The good news? With the right daily routine and barrier-supporting skincare, xerosis can be managed effectively.
This guide breaks down what xerosis is, what causes it, and how to care for it using Dermally Hydrating Barrier Wash and Dermally Intensive Barrier Repair Lotion.
What is Xerosis?
Xerosis is the medical term for abnormally dry skin caused by a weakened or compromised skin barrier. When the skin can’t hold onto enough moisture, it becomes:
- Flaky
- Rough
- Tight or itchy
- Cracked or scaly
- Sensitive or irritated
The skin barrier’s main role is to retain moisture and protect against irritants, but when this barrier is damaged, moisture escapes — a process known as Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL) leading to chronic dryness.
Common Causes of Xerosis
Xerosis is often triggered by a combination of environmental and lifestyle factors. Some of the most common include:
1. Low Humidity & Weather Changes
Air-conditioning, cold climates, or dry environments pull moisture out of the skin.
2. Hot Showers & Over-Bathing
Long, hot showers strip away natural oils essential for barrier function.
3. Harsh Cleansers
Soaps or body washes with sulfates, alcohol, or strong fragrances worsen dryness.
4. Ageing Skin
Mature skin naturally produces less oil, making xerosis more likely to occur.
5. Eczema or Skin Conditions
Individuals with eczema-prone skin are more sensitive and more prone to barrier disruption.
6. Medical Factors
Certain medications or health conditions (e.g., diabetes, kidney conditions) can worsen dryness.
Knowing the cause helps you build a better routine..but the foundation of xerosis care is always the same: gentle cleansing + intensive barrier repair.
Symptoms to Look Out For:
You may be experiencing xerosis if you notice:
Early care prevents dryness from developing into irritation or inflammation.
Daily Tips to Prevent Xerosis from Returning
-
- Limit hot showers — choose lukewarm water
- Use a humidifier if you’re in air-conditioned environments
- Moisturise more often during flare-ups
- Avoid scratching (it worsens barrier damage)
- Wear breathable fabrics like cotton
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
Your Daily Xerosis Routine with Dermally
Xerosis Can Be Managed with the Right Routine
Xerosis doesn’t have to be a constant battle. With gentle cleansing, the right ingredients, and a strong focus on daily barrier repair, your skin can return to feeling soft, smooth, and comfortable.
A two-step routine using Dermally Hydrating Barrier Wash + Dermally Intensive Barrier Repair Lotion designed to work together as a complete barrier-care system:
-
- Cleanse without stripping the skin barrier
- Hydrate deeply
- Restore and protect the skin barrier
- Reduce flakiness, itch, and tightness
- Support long-term skin health for all ages
Healthy skin begins with a healthy barrier and with Dermally, caring for xerosis is simple, gentle, and clinically thoughtful.
Step 1:
Cleanse Gently with Dermally Hydrating Barrier Wash
Your cleanser sets the foundation for healthy skin. Regular soaps or foaming washes can worsen dryness by stripping the natural sebum produced by your skin.
Why it works for Xerosis
- Panthenol: Helps soothe dryness and maintain moisture
- Vitamin E: Protects and supports skin repair
- Non-tight, non-squeaky finish: Prevents barrier disruption after shower
Step 2:
Repair & Replenish with Dermally Intensive Barrier Repair Lotion
Moisturising is the most important step for tackling xerosis. Dermally’s Repair Lotion delivers long-lasting hydration while repairing the skin barrier.
Key Barrier-Restoring Ingredients
-
10% Urea: Deeply hydrates and softens rough, dry skin
- 5x Ceramides: Help restore the skin barrier and prevent water loss
- Salicylic Acid: Smooths rough, bumpy skin
How to use: Apply immediately after cleansing to lock in hydration. Reapply to very dry areas 2–3 times a day.
When to See a Doctor
If your dryness is accompanied by severe itch, cracking, bleeding, or persistent eczema patches, consult a dermatologist. Xerosis is manageable at home, but chronic or inflamed skin may require medical treatment.
