The average person’s skin should be soft and spongy to the touch, mostly due to its water content. The upper layer of skin should have
at least 10% water, but 20 to 30% is more common and definitely healthier. If skin feels soft and smooth to the touch, this is known as a “normal” skin type. Healthy skin produces something known as sebum, which is a substance that helps keep it in optimum condition. Sebum is a mixture of different components, including sugar, wax, fatty acids, and other chemicals that slow down the evaporation of water from the skin. Dry skin, however, is quite different in terms of touch and appearance. The technical term for dry skin is “
xerosis,” and there are several factors that contribute it. Many people all over the world, whether they are young or old, suffer from dry skin—so it is nothing to be ashamed of! The good news is that even though there are many possible causes for dry skin, there are also many possible cures. Let’s take a look at a few of the most common causes of xerosis.
