What causes dry, flaky skin on the face and how to treat it?

Jul 16, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am 28 years old this year. Recently, I don't know why, my face keeps flaking and peeling. I have used some moisturizing skincare products, but the improvement only lasts temporarily. I would like to ask the doctor, what causes facial skin flaking and peeling? And what should I do about it?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Dry peeling skin on the face may be related to environmental factors and can be relieved by drinking more water and using hydrating face masks. It could also be caused by conditions such as allergic dermatitis or seborrheic dermatitis, which mainly require medication for treatment. Other potential causes should also be identified promptly for targeted therapy. 1. Environmental factors: If the surrounding air is excessively dry, it can lead to severe skin dehydration and cause dry peeling skin on the face. For this situation, increasing daily water intake to adequately hydrate the body, along with using hydrating face masks, can help replenish skin moisture and promote recovery, thus alleviating dry peeling skin. 2. Allergic dermatitis: This typically occurs due to an allergic reaction triggered by facial cosmetics or environmental factors, leading to allergic dermatitis. After the inflammation subsides, dry peeling skin may appear on the face, often accompanied by localized papules. Topical treatments such as fusidic acid ointment can be used, along with oral antihistamine medications like levocetirizine hydrochloride or loratadine. 3. Seborrheic dermatitis: This condition is usually caused by excessive hormonal factors, immune factors, or physical fatigue, which lead to abnormal sebum secretion on the face and result in dry peeling skin. Topical immunosuppressants such as pimecrolimus cream or tacrolimus ointment can be applied, along with oral vitamin B supplements.