Xeroderma is dry, itchy, flaky skin that is sometimes painful. It is simply caused by a lack of moisture in the skin's cells. The underlying cause of the lack of moisture could be overexposure to the elements, excessive cleansing or poor diet. Here, you will learn about the solutions.
• How the Skin Works to Stay Moist
There are several compounds that work to maintain the skin's moisture balance. You need all of your basic vitamins, minerals and amino acids from proteins to help your body produce the necessary compounds.
Keratin, a structural protein, is one of the things that help to keep the skin moist. It is a major component of all the cells of the skin's outer layers. It has the ability to absorb water from perspiration, from the air or from a shower and hold it inside of the cells.
Hyaluronic acid is another compound that provides moisture to the cells. It also plays a role in the production of new cells. It is composed of amino acids and glucose, a simple sugar.
Sebum is an oily, waxy fat produced by the sebaceous glands within the skin. It is secreted to protect against friction and to help hold moisture in the skin's cells. Even perspiration helps to keep the skin moist and supple.
• What Interferes with the Skin's Ability to Stay Moist
In order for your body to produce perspiration, you must drink enough water. Xeroderma is sometimes a symptom of chronic mild dehydration.
A lack of any nutrient could impede the body's ability to produce keratin, hyaluronic acid and sebum. Cleansers and tap water strip away the skin's sebum, leaving it defenseless.