{"id":2244,"date":"2026-02-03T16:28:20","date_gmt":"2026-02-03T15:28:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/labodicton.be\/stella\/?p=2244"},"modified":"2026-04-08T14:04:23","modified_gmt":"2026-04-08T12:04:23","slug":"dry-skin-characteristics-and-specific-needs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.stella.fr\/fr\/dry-skin-characteristics-and-specific-needs\/","title":{"rendered":"\u201cDry skin: characteristics and specific needs\u201d"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Dry skin, or xerosis cutis<\/em>, is a common condition affecting up to 50% of the global population. It is characterized by visible desquamation<\/strong> and uncomfortable sensations such as tightness, roughness, and itchiness.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But did you know that its development results from complex physiological mechanisms and disruptions in the skin barrier?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since 1990, scientific and dermatological research has focused on markers of dry skin, measurable indicators used to assess the causes and severity of xerosis<\/em>. These markers indicate that dry skin is associated with disruption of the cutaneous barrier, lipid alterations, and inflammatory responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A clearer understanding of the causes and characteristics of dry skin might allow skincare manufacturers and consumers to identify its specific needs and respond more effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This article describes the dry skin cycle, outlines its causes and specific needs, and examines cosmetic ingredients that may help address the condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Dry Skin Cycle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dry skin, also known as xerosis cutis<\/em>, is a dermatological disorder. Although it frequently causes discomfort, it is generally not considered harmful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In healthy, hydrated skin, the outermost layer of the epidermis, the stratum corneum<\/em> (SC), is composed of continuously shedding keratinocytes (or corneocytes) embedded in a lipid matrix. This matrix includes ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids, proteins, and enzymes. Ceramides, accounting for approximately 50% of the matrix, are critical for maintaining optimal lipid structure, regulating water permeability, and supporting skin barrier function<\/strong>. Corneocytes also contain natural moisturizing factors (NMFs) that contribute to SC hydration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But alterations in the structure, organization, or composition of these components can decrease SC hydration, compromise skin integrity, and disrupt normal desquamation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Three Steps of Dry Skin Development<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Step 1: Disruption of the cell renewal process<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Keratinocytes form the SC through differentiation into corneocytes, creating a protective layer that prevents excessive water loss. Defective corneocyte differentiation results in an immature SC, leading to a weakened barrier, decreased hydration, impaired shedding, and reduced intercellular lipid levels.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 2: Reduction of lipid production<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Intercellular lipids in the epidermis function as a cementing substance between skin cells. Together, lipids and corneocytes form a strong natural barrier, like a brick wall. This tight mesh of oil and cells forms an occlusive layer that minimizes water loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 3: Loss of natural skin hydration<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

When cell quality declines and lipid content decreases, dead cells fail to shed or renew effectively. Consequently, the SC cannot maintain a sufficient water concentration between the epidermis and the skin surface, leading to excessive water loss and the development of dry skin.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This structural deterioration, if left unaddressed, results in reduced sebum and sweat production, insufficient cell turnover, impaired barrier function, and increased transepidermal water loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The epidermis subsequently loses its effectiveness as a protective barrier and its ability to retain water. As moisture is depleted, the skin becomes rough and may develop redness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, when the protective layer is ineffective, external irritants such as pollution, allergens, bacteria, and fungi can penetrate the skin. As a result, the skin becomes vulnerable, reactive, and prone to irritation, leading to redness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Factors Contributing to Skin Dryness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Multiple factors may trigger or exacerbate skin dryness. These include external and environmental influences, such as weather conditions, as well as endogenous and intrinsic factors, including age and lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n