Dry and sensitive skin is usually attributed to cold weather or to harsh skin treatments. Many other factors, however, can wreak havoc on your skin and cause it to dry out or become red and irritated. Exposure to hot water and dry conditioned air or to inappropriate treatments for your skin type are all possible causes.

Generally, dry skin sufferers should apply moisturizer regularly, stay hydrated and exfoliate occasionally. People with sensitive skin should use gentle cleansers and other skin care products formulated for sensitive skin. Dry and sensitive skin requires special care. Fortunately, there are several ways to bring new life to your skin.

Alpha-Hydroxy Acid
Dry skin sufferers can benefit from products containing alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid, lactic acid or malic acid. Alpha-hydroxy acids are effective exfoliants that help remove rough, dead cells that build up on skin. They can also reduce redness that can occur with sensitive skin. An example of a glycolic acid product is ReVive Extraordinaire Hand Renewal Cream SPF 15. 

Beta-Hydroxy Acid
Another type of exfoliant useful for dry skin is a beta-hydroxy acid called salicylic acid. Beta-hydroxy acid solutions can penetrate pores and remove the build-up of dead skin cells for a fresher appearance. For more severe conditions, a beta-hydroxy acid peel can be done. In a skin peel, a chemical is applied to purposely irritate the skin, which then causes a healing process. Try a beta-hydroxy acid cream like Philosophy’s Hope in a Bottle Moisturizer or a beta-hydroxy facial product like Natura Bisse Stabilizing Cleansing Mask.

Retinol
Retinol, also known as retinol A, is a form of vitamin A and has been used for many years to revitalize many skin types, particularly rough, aging skin. For severe conditions, a prescription retinol product may be needed. But most people with dry or sensitive skin can use retinol skin care and retinol eye care products such as Robanda Multi Therapy Moisturizer SPF 25 or Skincare L De L Retinol Cosmetics Eye Gel.

Coenzyme Q10
Since dry and sensitive skin can be due to aging, coenzyme Q10, or coQ10, has been known to undue damage caused by free radicals. On a molecular level, free radicals deteriorate collagen and elastin, the building blocks of the skin, reducing its elasticity, and making skin sag and wrinkle. Skinvitals Q-Lift is one coenzymeQ10 product that can help renew damaged skin.

Wild Yam Extract
The wild yam (a separate species from edible yams) produces a root that is rich in diosgenin, a chemical with a structure similar to the hormone progesterone. Progesterone has a role in keeping skin healthy. Although diosgenin is not identical to human progesterone, some researchers claim it is an effective alternative for dry and sensitive skin. Those who use a cream that contains extract of wild yam over time have reported softer, more elastic skin and fewer wrinkles and fine lines. Women use these creams particularly around the neck and eyes, where wrinkles are more likely to occur. Look for a skin care product like Murad Resurgence Age-Balancing Night Cream to improve skin elasticity.

Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects skin by neutralizing free radicals and increasing collagen synthesis. Topical vitamin C products also help protect skin against damage from sunlight and are recommended to use in addition to — but not in replacement of — sunscreen products. Another benefit of vitamin C skin products is their resistance to water and perspiration. Vitamin C serum such as EmerginC Forte 20% Vitamin C Serum is ideal for all skin types except sensitive skin. All skin types can benefit from Vital Sciences Vitamin C Cream, which provides a gentle but effective alternative to a more concentrated formula.

Vitamins and Supplements
It's important to know what vitamins and minerals are recommended for healthy skin and hair and overall health. Vitamins such as B, C and E help stimulate hair growth, as will food supplements like extra protein and beta-carotene. Vitamin C is especially useful as an anti-aging vitamin as well as an antioxidant because it both boosts collagen production and defends the skin from the damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E is excellent against acne because it too acts as an antioxidant and may help reduce acne scarring. Weight loss vitamins include the B vitamins, which can improve metabolism, and the mineral zinc, which helps control appetite.

Antioxidants
We have mentioned antioxidants several times in relation to skin care and anti-aging regimens, but what are they and what do they do? Antioxidants destroy free radicals, which are molecules with incomplete electron shells that cause a chemical reaction with molecules whose electron shells are completely formed. Free radicals are found in the environment. This sounds complicated, but what you really want to know is that dry and sensitive skin can be caused or worsened by free radicals, so your skin needs antioxidants as protection.

Natural antioxidants are found in fruits and vegetables and other food groups such as nuts, grains, fish and poultry. Topical anti-aging products containing antioxidants can also provide protection against environmental damage to skin and slow down the effects of aging. Skincubed Professional Age-Defying Formula is an example of an anti-aging product designed to reduce free radical damage to the skin.