Flaky Skin – Causes, Care, & Prevention

Dry, flaky skin is a common skin concern that can happen to anyone. Read on to learn about what can cause flaky skin, strategies for helping prevent dry skin which can lead to flakiness, and ways to help restore the skin’s moisture for smoother, healthier-looking skin.

Flaky skin is commonly a symptom of dry skin which can be caused by both internal and environmental factors. Here are some of the most common causes of dry, flaky skin:

Harsh, cold, dry air can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to areas of exposed skin that may become dry and flaky.

Prolonged exposure to hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, making it dry and flaky. While a nice long, hot shower may feel soothing in the moment, it can compromise the skin’s moisture barrier and lead to dry skin afterward.

Traditional bar soaps have been shown to contribute to dry skin when compared to more gentle soap-free cleansers. Using bathing products with harsh and drying formulas can irritate skin and strip the skin of its natural moisture.

Conditions like eczema can lead to areas of dry, flaky skin. If you are concerned your dry, flaky skin may be caused by eczema, be sure to contact a board-certified dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

As people age, their skin thins and produces fewer natural oils, making it more susceptible to dryness and roughness. After age 40, the skin begins losing its ability to retain moisture, and with age, the skin produces less Hyaluronic Acid, causing hydration loss.

Some people are more prone to having a dry skin type than others due to their genetics. People with a dry skin type are more likely to experience areas of dry and flaky skin.

When you’re dehydrated, your skin can become dehydrated too, which can contribute to temporary dryness and flakiness.

The skin has a delicate moisture barrier that helps protect the skin and helps it to retain its natural moisture. When this barrier gets disrupted, it can allow moisture to escape and dry out the skin, leaving dead skin buildup on the surface. This dry and dehydrated skin lacks the necessary moisture and oils to maintain a smooth and supple texture, causing roughness and flakiness.

When flakiness occurs, it can manifest as dry, rough patches of skin and can even take on a scaly appearance and may feel tight or itchy. Itching the skin can then compromise the moisture barrier further, perpetuating a cycle of more dryness and flakiness known as the itch-scratch cycle. 

Flaky skin caused by dryness is commonly found on areas of the skin that are exposed to the elements, such as the face, hands, and feet. Flaky skin can also be found on other areas of the body, particularly if dry skin is being caused by taking long, hot showers. If your skin is dry due to prolonged exposure to hot water, you may find that the skin on your back, shoulders or limbs is feeling tight and flaky from dryness.

Since the skin on the face is most frequently exposed to the elements, it can easily become dry and may become flaky. You may find your face feeling rough or flaky after a lot of exposure to cold, dry winter weather, or after extensive and unprotected sun exposure.

There is not one surefire way to get rid of flaky skin, and it also depends on the cause. However, there are certain measures you can take to help hydrate skin, soothe dry skin and help promote a more soft, smooth appearance if your flaky skin is caused by dryness. Here are some tips that can not only help soothe dry, flaky skin but help prevent flaky skin before it starts:

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends limiting your bath or shower to 5-10 minutes and to use warm, not hot, water, being sure to gently pat skin dry afterward with a towel instead of rubbing.

Dry indoor air such as forced hot air heat in the wintertime can dehydrate the skin. Using a humidifier introduces moisture into your indoor environment.

Be sure to drink enough water throughout the day and consult with a healthcare provider to determine the amount that’s right for you.

Since unprotected sun exposure can damage the skin and lead to photoaging, or signs of premature aging such as fine lines and wrinkles and dryness, be sure to wear sunscreen every day year-round (even on cloudy days), and take proper sun protection measures such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding direct sun exposure at peak hours of the day.

One of the most important and effective ways to help dry, flaky skin is to regularly moisturize your skin using a moisture specially formulated for very dry, flaky skin, such as Eucerin Complete Repair™ Moisturizing Cream with 5% Urea and ceramides. This rich, fragrance-free moisturizing cream provides immediate dry skin relief that lasts up to 48 hours in a non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula that locks in moisture and strengthens the skin’s natural barrier for skin that looks and feels softer and smoother. Also available as a lotion.

For particularly dry and flaky skin, try Eucerin Complete Repair™ Plus Moisturizing Lotion with 10% Urea and Ceramide-3. This moisturizing lotion not only provides immediate dry skin relief for up to 48 hours, but it also gently exfoliates while intensely moisturizing, helping skin to feel smooth and healthy again.

For dry, flaky skin on hands, try Eucerin Complete Repair™ Moisturizing Hand Cream, and for dry feet, try Eucerin Complete Repair™ Foot Cream. 

Eucerin is a dermatologist-recommended skincare brand. Eucerin products are developed with Dermatologists to help specific skin needs, including dry, cracked, sensitive, itchy, and eczema-prone skin. We understand that dry skin can feel uncomfortable and affect self-confidence. In addition to Eucerin Complete Repair™ Moisturizing Lotion for very dry, flaky skin, we offer a wide selection of innovative skin care products that help to address dry skin. 

Explore Eucerin’s full range of dry skin products. 

The information provided herein is not intended to be medical advice. Nor is it intended to treat the underlying skin disease or condition. The information is provided solely to:

1. Moisturize, soften and smooth dry skin 
2. Improve the appearance of the skin 
3. Achieve healthier-looking skin