Dry, Itchy Skin? What Causes It And How to Fix It Naturally?

Dry skin can be more than just uncomfortable - it can affect your confidence, cause irritation, and even lead to cracks or infections if not properly cared for. Whether it shows up as tightness after washing, rough patches, or seasonal flakiness, dry skin is incredibly common, especially in colder months or dry climates.

Thankfully, there are natural and effective ways to support your skin’s moisture barrier through proper nutrition, hydration, and gentle skincare habits. In this article, we’ll explore what causes dry skin and how to nourish it from the inside out. If symptoms are severe or persistent, a dermatologist can help identify underlying issues.

What Is Dry Skin?

Dry skin, or xerosis, happens when your skin doesn’t have enough moisture or natural oils to stay soft and smooth. It may be temporary (like in winter) or chronic (such as with eczema or age-related thinning).

Common causes include:

• Cold weather or low humidity

• Hot showers or harsh soaps

• Dehydration or low water intake

• Nutritional deficiencies

• Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis

• Aging (skin produces less oil over time)

• Over-exfoliation or aggressive skincare routines

Signs of Dry Skin

You might notice:

• Flaky or scaly patches

• Tightness, especially after bathing

• Redness or irritation

• Fine lines or cracks

• Itching or burning sensations

• Rough or dull texture

When dry skin becomes severe, it can lead to inflammation, eczema, or skin infections due to small tears or breaks in the protective barrier.

Skin Care Nutrients: What Your Skin Needs to Stay Hydrated

Healthy, glowing skin starts from within. Your skin cells rely on key nutrients to stay plump, hydrated, and resilient. A lack of certain vitamins, fatty acids, or minerals can make skin drier, thinner, and more prone to damage.

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Why they help: These healthy fats support your skin’s lipid barrier, locking in moisture and reducing inflammation.
Sources: Salmon, chia seeds, flaxseed oil, walnuts
Supplements: Fish oil, krill oil, or algae-based omega-3s

2. Vitamin E

Why it helps: A powerful antioxidant that helps retain moisture and protects skin from damage. Often used in topical creams too.
Sources: Almonds, sunflower seeds, avocados, spinach
Supplements: Mixed tocopherols or topical vitamin E oil

3. Vitamin C

Why it helps: Essential for collagen production and skin healing. Also improves skin texture and helps hold moisture.
Sources: Citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, broccoli
Supplements: Ascorbic acid or liposomal vitamin C

4. Zinc

Why it helps: Supports skin repair, reduces inflammation, and helps maintain skin barrier function. Deficiency can lead to rough or scaly patches.
Sources: Pumpkin seeds, oysters, beef, lentils
Supplements: Zinc picolinate or gluconate

5. Vitamin A (and Beta-Carotene)

Why it helps: Encourages healthy skin cell turnover and repairs dry, damaged skin. Too little can make skin rough or bumpy.
Sources: Sweet potatoes, carrots, kale, eggs
Supplements: Retinyl palmitate (preformed vitamin A) or beta-carotene

6. Collagen & Hyaluronic Acid

Why they help: Collagen supports skin structure; hyaluronic acid holds moisture like a sponge and keeps skin looking plump.
Sources: Bone broth, citrus fruits, leafy greens
Supplements: Hydrolyzed collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid capsules or powders

Lifestyle Habits for Healthy, Hydrated Skin

Nutrition is a great place to start, but how you treat your skin matters too. These habits can help your skin stay soft, smooth, and irritation-free:

Use Lukewarm Water – Hot water strips away natural oils. Use warm water and limit showers to 10–15 minutes.

Moisturize Immediately After Bathing – Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer while skin is still damp to lock in moisture.

Switch to Gentle Cleansers – Avoid soaps with alcohol, sulfates, or heavy fragrances. Look for cream or oil-based cleansers.

Stay Hydrated – Drink enough water daily (aim for at least 8 cups) to keep skin hydrated from the inside out.

Use a Humidifier – Especially in winter or dry climates, adding moisture to the air can reduce skin dryness.

Manage Stress – Chronic stress affects hormones and weakens the skin barrier. Try meditation, exercise, or journaling.

Protect from the Sun – UV rays dry and damage the skin, even in winter. Use SPF daily, even if it’s cloudy.