How to Treat Dry Patches on Skin, According to a Dermatologist

Whether it’s the cold weather or just your natural skin type, figuring out how to treat dry patches on skin is useful in any routine. Dry patches can lead to pesky flakes and irritation—not to mention it prevents smooth makeup application—but sometimes, even our best moisturizers won’t cut it.

According to board-certified dermatologist Debbie Palmer, DO, dry patches can occur for a number of reasons. “Certain medical conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema can cause them,” says Dr. Palmer.

Other things to consider are climate and even the medications you take. “Environmental factors can also play a role,” she adds. “Some of the factors that could be responsible include cold weather, wind, dry weather with low humidity, long, hot showers, harsh soaps that strip the skin, topical rejuvenation products, sunburn, airline travel and dehydration. Also, stress and certain vitamin deficiencies and topical or oral prescription medications could be responsible.”

So, how can you prevent dry patches on skin?

Adjust your water temperature

Bad news: your long hot shower might be affecting your skin. Dr. Palmer recommends limiting baths or showers to five to ten minutes and to use warm water instead of hot water, which can be drying. To avoid irritation, she also recommends using gentle or fragrance-free products.

Your face and body care routine after can also have an affect on skin. “When drying off after a bath or shower it is best to pat your skin with a dry towel as rubbing your skin can irritate,” says Dr. Palmer. “After drying off, immediately apply your fragrance-free moisturizer.”

Use a humidifier

An easy way to add instant moisture is putting a humidifier in your room. “You can boost home humidity by using a humidifier but remember to clean it regularly to prevent mold,” says Dr. Palmer.

Protect your hands

Your hands likely have the most contact with surfaces and the elements, making them especially vulnerable to dryness. Dr. Palmer recommends protecting them in all situations. “When performing tasks using chemicals, like those found in cleaning agents, or when gardening you can wear gloves,” she says. “Winter gloves can also be used to protect the skin from cold, dry air.”

Especially in the winter months, you’ll want to invest in a good hand cream to soothe any dryness or cracks. “It’s also important to prevent dry patches on the hands by applying moisturizer after each hand washing,” she says. “I advise patients to look for gentle, fragrance-free skin care products and to use creams instead of lotions as they can add more moisture to the skin.”

How to treat dry patches on skin

Best ingredients for dry patches

There are a few ingredients that can help treat dry patches. “I advise patients to look for products that contain hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, glycerin, or dimethicone,” says Dr. Palmer. As always, seek out a dermatologist if your dryness does not improve.

“Two of my favorite products are Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream and Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream, which is accepted by the National Eczema Association,” says Dr. Palmer. “I advise patients to treat the dry patches by applying the creams two to three times daily.”