In assessing a client's skin, which factor would most likely contribute to dry skin?

In assessing a client's skin, which factor would most likely contribute to dry skin?

• A. Use of hard soap
• B. Frequent bathing
• C. Exposure to cold weather
• D. High humidity

Answer: (A)

Dry skin happens when the skin’s protective barrier is disrupted and moisture escapes more easily. Cleansing products that remove natural oils are a common cause, and hard soap is particularly effective at this because it is more alkaline and harsher on the skin than mild cleansers. That harsher cleansing disrupts the lipids in the outer skin layer, increasing transepidermal water loss and leaving the skin dry, tight, and rough. Cold weather and frequent bathing can also contribute to dryness, but the cleansing agent’s properties make hard soap the most impactful factor among the options. High humidity tends to keep skin moisturized, not dry.

Dry skin happens when the skin’s protective barrier is disrupted and moisture escapes more easily. Cleansing products that remove natural oils are a common cause, and hard soap is particularly effective at this because it is more alkaline and harsher on the skin than mild cleansers. That harsher cleansing disrupts the lipids in the outer skin layer, increasing transepidermal water loss and leaving the skin dry, tight, and rough. Cold weather and frequent bathing can also contribute to dryness, but the cleansing agent’s properties make hard soap the most impactful factor among the options. High humidity tends to keep skin moisturized, not dry.