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What Are The Causes Of Dry, Flaky Skin On Face?

What Are The Causes Of Dry, Flaky Skin On Face?
As the seasons change and the climate becomes colder and drier in many areas, it’s common to experience dry, flaky skin on your face and neck. These dry patches can be uncomfortable and sometimes unsightly, but a nourishing skin care routine can help keep your stressed skin smooth and fresh. This blog will discuss the causes of dry, flaky facial skin and how to soothe and prevent it.
As the seasons change and the climate becomes colder and drier in many areas, it’s common to experience dry, flaky skin on your face and neck. These dry patches can be uncomfortable and sometimes unsightly, but a nourishing skin care routine can help keep your stressed skin smooth and fresh. This blog will discuss the causes of dry, flaky facial skin and how to soothe and prevent it.
01

Why is my face dry and flaky?

The answer to β€œ Why is my skin peeling?” is sometimes extremely dry skin. Xerosis cutis–or β€œdry skin”–affects most individuals worldwide at one point or another and can result in rough, flaky, and itchy skin across the body. Dry flaky skin on the face indicates inadequate moisture retention and a compromised skin barrier. When the skin is dry, the activity of enzymes that produce moisturizing factors within the skin is reduced, exacerbating the issue. [1]There are several external and internal factors that can trigger dry skin patches. The two most common causes of dry facial skin in most individuals are changes in temperature and humidity in the environment, especially during the winter months in far-equatorial countries. Some individuals are more prone to dry facial skin, partly due to skin conditions and the low production of natural oils in the skin called sebum. Impaired production of facial sebum can compromise the skin barrier, reduce moisture retention, and lead to flaky, itchy skin. This weakened barrier also puts the skin at risk for infection and increased sensitivity to other environmental irritants, the effects of which will persist until the barrier is able to build back up.
01

Why is my face dry and flaky?

The answer to β€œ Why is my skin peeling?” is sometimes extremely dry skin. Xerosis cutis–or β€œdry skin”–affects most individuals worldwide at one point or another and can result in rough, flaky, and itchy skin across the body. Dry flaky skin on the face indicates inadequate moisture retention and a compromised skin barrier. When the skin is dry, the activity of enzymes that produce moisturizing factors within the skin is reduced, exacerbating the issue. [1]There are several external and internal factors that can trigger dry skin patches. The two most common causes of dry facial skin in most individuals are changes in temperature and humidity in the environment, especially during the winter months in far-equatorial countries. Some individuals are more prone to dry facial skin, partly due to skin conditions and the low production of natural oils in the skin called sebum. Impaired production of facial sebum can compromise the skin barrier, reduce moisture retention, and lead to flaky, itchy skin. This weakened barrier also puts the skin at risk for infection and increased sensitivity to other environmental irritants, the effects of which will persist until the barrier is able to build back up.
02

What are the common causes of dry flaky facial skin?

1. Environment

Cold, dry air and exposure to sun and wind can strip away the essential oils in the skin needed to maintain homeostasis. [2]

2. Harsh soaps and products

These can include alkaline soaps, detergents, and alcohols found in facial cleansers, toners, laundry products, and other cosmetics.

3. Age

As our skin ages, it may have reduced functional capacity, lower lipid production, and compromised integrity due to lower collagen levels. [4] Additionally, aging individuals can have increased use of diuretics and similar medications and may overuse heaters or air conditioners, which can dry the skin. That’s why it’s important for those experiencing dry skin concerns in middle and older ages to properly moisturize and use barrier-building products.

4. Lifestyle

Those spending more time outdoors for occupational and leisurely activities are more prone to dry skin due to exposure to varying environmental elements. Stress can also provoke endocrine and immune-mediated tissue remodeling in the skin, which can alter the skin barrier. [5]Other causes that aren't so common:
  • Dehydration: Dehydrated skin often exhibits the same symptoms as dry flaky skin. Aside from experiencing dryness, you'll know you're dehydrated when dry skin is accompanied by signs of dehydration, such as dark urine, thirst, and tiredness.
  • Seborrheic dermatitis: One of the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis is dryness but usually on the scalp.
02

What are the common causes of dry flaky facial skin?

1. Environment

Cold, dry air and exposure to sun and wind can strip away the essential oils in the skin needed to maintain homeostasis. [2]

2. Harsh soaps and products

These can include alkaline soaps, detergents, and alcohols found in facial cleansers, toners, laundry products, and other cosmetics.

3. Age

As our skin ages, it may have reduced functional capacity, lower lipid production, and compromised integrity due to lower collagen levels. [4] Additionally, aging individuals can have increased use of diuretics and similar medications and may overuse heaters or air conditioners, which can dry the skin. That’s why it’s important for those experiencing dry skin concerns in middle and older ages to properly moisturize and use barrier-building products.

4. Lifestyle

Those spending more time outdoors for occupational and leisurely activities are more prone to dry skin due to exposure to varying environmental elements. Stress can also provoke endocrine and immune-mediated tissue remodeling in the skin, which can alter the skin barrier. [5]Other causes that aren't so common:
  • Dehydration: Dehydrated skin often exhibits the same symptoms as dry flaky skin. Aside from experiencing dryness, you'll know you're dehydrated when dry skin is accompanied by signs of dehydration, such as dark urine, thirst, and tiredness.
  • Seborrheic dermatitis: One of the symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis is dryness but usually on the scalp.
03

How do I get rid of dry flaky skin on my face?

There are many treatments, methods, and skin care products that can be used to fight against the development and persistence of dry facial skin.

Moisturize and cleanse dry skin patches

Regularly applying a good moisturizing cream containing rehydrating and lipid-replenishing ingredients can help promote and retain moisture. [6] Cleansing the skin with lukewarm water and a gentle facial cleanser can ensure the removal of dead skin cells that can compromise the facial skin barrier.

Make informed decisions about skin care ingredients

Try looking for products with one or more of the following ingredients:
  • Niacinamde
  • Squalane
  • Jojoba oil
  • Glycerin
  • Hyaluronic acid
Avoid skincare products that include common irritants or ingredients known to break down the skin barrier:
  • Alcohol
  • Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA)
  • Fragrance
  • Retinoids (in high doses or too frequently)
For those with a dry skin type, understanding which skin care ingredients to incorporate and which skin care ingredients to avoid is key to managing flaky skin concerns effectively. Choose products with hydrating components to replenish moisture and reduce dryness, and on the other hand, steer clear of ingredients that may cause skin irritation and further dehydration.

Invest in good nutrition

Vitamin and mineral deficiency can significantly alter the skin tissue. Ensure proper levels of vitamins A & D, niacin, zinc, and iron, which can contribute to moisture retention in the skin. [7]

Men, mind your facial hair

It’s important to ensure proper moisture and care underneath facial hair. Appropriate skin preparation and post-shaving care products should always be used before and after shaving.

Plug in that humidifier!

Supplementation of moisture to the air, especially in your bedroom while you sleep, can be a great way to effectively maintain moisture in your skin, particularly in climates that require heaters during the colder seasons. [8]

Drink your water and maintain your mental health

Keep your skin, mind, and body fresh and well with plenty of water and wellness practices.

Use topical products that enhance barrier function

Integrating topical skin care products that are proven to improve skin barrier function is the best way to support your skin’s moisture retention capacity. Consider using products such as OneSkin’s Topical Supplements, which are powered by the OS-01 peptide scientifically proven to increase skin’s epidermal thickness and promote collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis. [9, 10] OneSkin's OS-01 FACE, OS-01 BODY, and OS-01 EYE are all clinically validated to improve skin's barrier function, hydration, and texture. [9, 10, 11]
03

How do I get rid of dry flaky skin on my face?

There are many treatments, methods, and skin care products that can be used to fight against the development and persistence of dry facial skin.

Moisturize and cleanse dry skin patches

Regularly applying a good moisturizing cream containing rehydrating and lipid-replenishing ingredients can help promote and retain moisture. [6] Cleansing the skin with lukewarm water and a gentle facial cleanser can ensure the removal of dead skin cells that can compromise the facial skin barrier.

Make informed decisions about skin care ingredients

Try looking for products with one or more of the following ingredients:
  • Niacinamde
  • Squalane
  • Jojoba oil
  • Glycerin
  • Hyaluronic acid
Avoid skincare products that include common irritants or ingredients known to break down the skin barrier:
  • Alcohol
  • Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA)
  • Fragrance
  • Retinoids (in high doses or too frequently)
For those with a dry skin type, understanding which skin care ingredients to incorporate and which skin care ingredients to avoid is key to managing flaky skin concerns effectively. Choose products with hydrating components to replenish moisture and reduce dryness, and on the other hand, steer clear of ingredients that may cause skin irritation and further dehydration.

Invest in good nutrition

Vitamin and mineral deficiency can significantly alter the skin tissue. Ensure proper levels of vitamins A & D, niacin, zinc, and iron, which can contribute to moisture retention in the skin. [7]

Men, mind your facial hair

It’s important to ensure proper moisture and care underneath facial hair. Appropriate skin preparation and post-shaving care products should always be used before and after shaving.

Plug in that humidifier!

Supplementation of moisture to the air, especially in your bedroom while you sleep, can be a great way to effectively maintain moisture in your skin, particularly in climates that require heaters during the colder seasons. [8]

Drink your water and maintain your mental health

Keep your skin, mind, and body fresh and well with plenty of water and wellness practices.

Use topical products that enhance barrier function

Integrating topical skin care products that are proven to improve skin barrier function is the best way to support your skin’s moisture retention capacity. Consider using products such as OneSkin’s Topical Supplements, which are powered by the OS-01 peptide scientifically proven to increase skin’s epidermal thickness and promote collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis. [9, 10] OneSkin's OS-01 FACE, OS-01 BODY, and OS-01 EYE are all clinically validated to improve skin's barrier function, hydration, and texture. [9, 10, 11]
04

What to avoid when your skin is dry and flaky

Avoid hot showers and high-heat environments

Exposure to hot water can physically strip away essential oils in the skin and induce skin irritation. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends limiting showers and baths to 5-10 min to help heal dry skin. [12]

Fragrances

Cosmetics and laundry detergents with fragrances can lead to skin irritation particularly those with preexisting skin conditions. Utilize fragrance-free moisturizers, cleansers, and laundry products to avoid irritation.

Use gentle but effective skin care products

Gentle cleansers, like PREP, and moisturizers can help treat and prevent dry facial skin.
04

What to avoid when your skin is dry and flaky

Avoid hot showers and high-heat environments

Exposure to hot water can physically strip away essential oils in the skin and induce skin irritation. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends limiting showers and baths to 5-10 min to help heal dry skin. [12]

Fragrances

Cosmetics and laundry detergents with fragrances can lead to skin irritation particularly those with preexisting skin conditions. Utilize fragrance-free moisturizers, cleansers, and laundry products to avoid irritation.

Use gentle but effective skin care products

Gentle cleansers, like PREP, and moisturizers can help treat and prevent dry facial skin.

Last Updated February 26, 2025

Reviewed by

Alessandra Zonari

Alessandra Zonari

PhD, Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and Co-Founder of OneSkin

Alessandra earned her Master’s degree in stem cell biology, and her PhD in skin regeneration and tissue engineering at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil in collaboration with the 3B’s Research Group in Portugal. Alessandra did a second post-doctoral at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. She is a co-inventor of three patents and has published 20 peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals.