Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: kdlynn on 16/08/2007 04:04:14

Title: why does skin itch when it needs to be moisturized?
Post by: kdlynn on 16/08/2007 04:04:14

right now the skin on my hands is kind of dry. in a minute i'm going to put on some lotion. but does anyone know why it's itchy?

Title: why does skin itch when it needs to be moisturized?
Post by: paul.fr on 16/08/2007 17:04:38

The outer layer of skin is made up of dead skin cells, natural oils and lipids. this gives protection to the deeper layers of skin from irritants and toxins.

Soaps and other cleaning stuff, can strip away this protective layer. Your skin being dry and itchy, could be a result of using soap or other stuff that has stripped away this natural protection. This is when you apply your cream, to restore some type of ballance.

The same(ish) reason you use conditioner after washing your hair.