What Causes Dry, Itchy Skin on the Face?

Every time the seasons change, many people notice increased skin itching—scratching only makes it worse. This is especially common in the evening before bed, when entering the warm bedding triggers itching. So, what causes dryness and itching on the face?

What Causes Dryness and Itching on the Face?

Dry skin accompanied by facial itching often indicates seborrheic dermatitis of the face with a dry phenotype. This may be related to insufficient facial sebum production or certain allergic triggers. Facial dryness and flaking typically suggest inadequate sebum secretion—either inherently low sebum output or secondary sebum deficiency due to other underlying causes. Sebum deficiency in the facial skin can occur in individuals with naturally dry skin, in older adults, or in those with inflammatory skin conditions affecting the face. In elderly individuals, age-related decline in sebaceous gland function and reduced sebum secretion commonly lead to dry, flaky facial skin. The most common inflammatory condition causing facial dryness and scaling is excessive facial cleansing—overwashing or over-exfoliating the face compromises the skin barrier and results in dryness and desquamation.

Additionally, frequent or inappropriate use of topical skincare products or cosmetics may provoke allergic reactions and impair the skin barrier, manifesting as facial dryness, flaking, and pruritus. Environmental and seasonal factors—including stronger spring sunlight compared to winter, exposure to wind and sun, or sensitivities to pollen and dust—can trigger allergic contact dermatitis of the face, presenting with dryness, scaling, and itching. Similarly, summer UV exposure and sweat irritation, as well as the dry, windy conditions of autumn and winter, all contribute to facial dryness, flaking, and pruritus.

Patients should identify and eliminate potential triggers of facial dryness and scaling. Avoid indiscriminate use of cosmetics, excessive cosmetic procedures, and topical corticosteroid creams. Skincare products should contain gentle, minimal-ingredient formulations. We hope this information proves helpful!