From the age of 40, many women start to mourn the loss of their once soft, supple skin as dryness and flakiness start to rear their heads.
Such changes are inevitable and nothing to be ashamed of; however, it's possible to combat these unwelcome signs of ageing with the right know-how.
In conversation with GB News, consultant dermatologist Dr Paul Farrant offered an insight into skin dryness over 40, highlighting both causes and practical solutions.
Among other suggestions, he advised women to avoid over-washing, using harsh soaps, and cleansing with "very hot" water. Rather, they should use gentle, soap-free, hydrating cleansers.
What causes skin dryness?
According to the dermatologist, dry skin occurs as a result of a weakened skin barrier, which leads to moisture loss.
He explained: "This can be due to environmental factors such as cold weather, central heating or air conditioning, over-washing, or the use of harsh soaps.
"Some people do have a genetic predisposition to drier skin, while certain medical conditions like hypothyroidism or eczema can contribute."
Use soap-free, hydrating cleansers and avoid 'very hot' water when washing your skin
GETTY IMAGESDoes ageing exacerbate dry skin?
Unfortunately, as well as these environmental and genetic factors, "ageing naturally reduces the skin's ability to retain moisture".
The expert said: "From our 40s onward, we produce less sebum (our skin's natural oil), and there's a decline in ceramides (lipids that help maintain a strong skin barrier). This makes the skin more prone to dryness, roughness, and sensitivity."
What's more, the body's natural production of hyaluronic acid (a powerful humectant which binds to and holds water molecules) depletes with age.
This is widely understood by skin care gurus, with GP and skin specialist Dr Nisa Aslam confirming: "A lack of hyaluronic acid can lead to wrinkles, dryness, and fine lines."
How can I combat dry skin?
Skin care
The expert established that dry skin is a common concern among mature women, but this doesn't mean your complexion is a lost cause once you hit a milestone birthday.
"It's important to know that there are lots of factors that go into skin health, but the best place to start is with your skin care," Dr Farrant advised.
He recommended using soap-free, hydrating cleansers and avoiding "very hot" water when washing your skin.
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'Look for moisturisers containing ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid'
GETTY IMAGESThe expert continued: "Look for moisturisers containing ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid, and apply them to damp skin to lock in moisture."
Providing a word of warning, he added: "Don't over-exfoliate. While exfoliating can help to remove dry, flaky skin, it's important to only do it once a week and avoid harsh scrubs if you have dry skin.
"Finally, I always recommend daily sunscreen as UV exposure further impairs skin barrier function and accelerates ageing."
For supple skin at any age, ensure you don't neglect your neck when it comes to skin care, either.
Lifestyle
"Your lifestyle also plays a factor," the doctor revealed, "so it's important to drink plenty of water and eat a healthy, balanced diet".
The expert recommended reaching for healthy fats like those in oily fish, avocados, nuts, and seeds, as well as antioxidant-rich foods, to "help protect skin against environmental damage".
Examples of antioxidant-rich foods are berries, beans, prunes, and dark leafy greens.
Enjoying a nutritious diet and avoiding junk food is widely understood as a skin care saviour.
Indeed, one 80-year-old who passes for decades younger credits her appearance to a key diet choice: avoiding one food that destroys the skin.
Dr Farrant added: "It's also a good idea to limit long, hot showers or baths as these strip natural oils from the skin.
"If you find your skin gets worse in the winter, investing in a humidifier can reduce dryness caused by central heating."
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