If your skin was fine a few weeks ago and now feels tight, rough, flaky or itchy, something has usually changed — in your environment, your routine or your body. Sudden dryness is very common and usually easy to fix once you've found the trigger. Here are the ten most common causes, and what to do about each.
Everyday and environmental causes
- A change in weather. The switch to colder, windier weather in autumn — and drier indoor air once the heating goes on — is the number one cause of sudden dryness in the UK. See our autumn skincare guide.
- Hotter or longer showers. Hot water strips the oils that keep skin supple. Many of us turn the temperature up as the weather cools.
- Hard water. Moving house, or living in a hard-water area, can leave skin drier. We cover this in our hard water guide.
- Not drinking enough or illness. Being dehydrated, unwell or run-down can show in your skin, particularly as dull, tight "dehydrated" skin. Learn the difference in dehydrated vs dry skin.
Product and routine causes
- A new product. A new cleanser, fragranced body wash, laundry detergent or skincare active can strip or irritate skin.
- Over-exfoliating or starting actives. Retinoids, acids (AHA/BHA) and scrubs can cause dryness and flaking, especially if used too often. See how to use retinol on dry skin.
- Stopping your moisturiser — or switching to a lighter summer formula that isn't enough for colder months.
Health and medication causes
- Medications. Some medicines can dry the skin, including certain diuretics, statins, retinoid tablets (isotretinoin) and some acne and blood-pressure treatments. Don't stop any prescribed medicine — speak to your GP or pharmacist.
- Hormonal changes. Perimenopause and menopause, pregnancy and an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can all make skin noticeably drier.
- Skin or other health conditions. Eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, diabetes and kidney problems can all cause or worsen dry skin. If dryness comes with intense itching, a rash or other symptoms, get it checked. See dry skin vs eczema.
What to do right now
Go back to basics for two weeks: lukewarm, shorter showers; a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser; and a rich, fragrance-free moisturiser applied to damp skin twice a day. Pause any new products and strong actives, and reintroduce them one at a time to find the culprit. Ceramide and glycerin-based creams are a great first step — see our best moisturisers guide.
When to see a GP
See a GP if your skin doesn't improve after two weeks of good care, if it's very itchy, cracked, bleeding or infected, or if dryness comes with other symptoms such as tiredness, weight changes, feeling cold, increased thirst or frequent urination — these can point to an underlying condition like thyroid problems or diabetes that's worth checking.
Frequently asked questions
Why has my skin suddenly become so dry?
The most common causes are colder weather and central heating, hotter showers, a new or harsh product, over-exfoliating, or starting an active like retinol. Medications, hormonal changes and health conditions can also cause sudden dryness.
Can stress cause dry skin?
Stress can weaken the skin barrier and trigger flare-ups of conditions like eczema, which can make skin feel drier and more reactive. Good sleep, a simple routine and a rich moisturiser all help.
Can a vitamin deficiency cause dry skin?
Occasionally. Low levels of certain nutrients, including essential fatty acids, vitamin A and zinc, can affect skin, but this is uncommon in the UK. If you're concerned, speak to your GP rather than taking high-dose supplements.
When should I worry about dry skin?
See a GP if dryness doesn't improve within two weeks of good care, is severely itchy, cracked or infected, or comes with other symptoms like tiredness, weight change, thirst or feeling cold.
