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Understanding and Treating Dry Skin: Causes and Symptoms
Pimples dry skin

Pimples on dry skin: causes, prevention and treatments

Summary

Understanding pimples on dry skin

Why can dry skin cause pimples ? ^{1 2 3}

Dry or sensitive skin is usually not a direct cause of pimples, but it can exacerbate the underlying causes of dryness that encourage the appearance of pimples. When the skin is dry, it becomes more easily irritated, leading to increased flaking. This can clog pores, creating an environment conducive to inflammation and infection. Those mechanisms can, in turn, exacerbate skin conditions such as acne or rosacea. What's more, inappropriate skin care to treat dryness may include products that are too oily or comedogenic, aggravating or triggering the appearance of pimples.

Differentiation of pimple types on dry skin⁴

Pimples on dry skin can take different forms:

Macules are changes in skin colour that cannot be touched. They may be red, brown or depigmented.
Papules are small, raised lesions measuring less than 1 cm in diameter. They are notably associated with acne or keratosis pilaris.
Nodules are deep, often painful lesions extending into the dermis. They are larger than papules and may result from severe acne.
Vesicles: are tiny bubbles less than a centimetre in size containing a clear liquid. They are prevalent in contact dermatitis and cutaneous herpes.
Pustules are vesicles containing pus found in inflammatory acne and impetigo.

Macules

Papule

Nodules

Vesicles

Pustule

Common causes of pimples on dry skin

Keratosis pilaris⁵

Keratosis pilaris is characterised by small, rough pimples that often appear on the arms, thighs, and sometimes the face. These pimples are caused by a build-up of keratin blocking the hair follicles. People with naturally dry skin are more likely to develop this condition, as dryness can exacerbate the build-up of keratin in the hair follicles.

Acne and dryness^{3 4}

Acne is a skin condition that mainly affects teenagers, although it can occur at any age. It involves the face, neck, back, and chest. The manifestations of acne vary and include black and whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules and cysts in the most severe cases.

The appearance of acne on dry skin may seem contradictory, as it is often associated with the overproduction of sebum and oily skin. However, other factors can contribute to the development of acne on dry skin, including an accumulation of dead skin cells that clog pores, excessive sun exposure, some medications (lithium, steroids, anti-epileptics), the use of aggressive skin care products (conventional soaps, exfoliants, scrubs) or comedogenic products (products that are too rich in oil, make-up, etc.), the manipulation of pimples or an unsuitable diet.

Dry skin can aggravate inflammation and make acne treatment tricky. Moisturising therapies are required to maintain the moisture balance without causing new lesions.

Rosacea and dry skin⁶

Rosacea is a dermatological disease mainly affecting adults between 30 and 50. It specifically targets the face, affecting the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin. Characteristic symptoms include persistent redness with papules and sometimes pustules. Dry skin can exacerbate these manifestations, making the skin more susceptible to inflammation and irritation.

Milia⁷

Milia are tiny white or yellow bumps that usually appear on infants' faces. They are caused by keratin cysts that form when skin cells do not exfoliate properly and become trapped beneath the skin's surface. Dry skin can reduce natural exfoliation, favouring milia.

Atopic dermatitis⁸

Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a chronic inflammatory dermatological disease that causes dry skin, red patches, itching and sometimes tiny blisters. It is frequently observed in individuals with a family history of allergies and is aggravated by dry skin. It mainly affects infants but can appear at any age, particularly on the face, neck, arm folds and behind the knees. Regular moisturising of the skin is the mainstay of treatment.

Contact dermatitis⁸

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to contact with allergenic or irritant substances, leading to a localised inflammatory reaction, sometimes including small pimples. Dry skin is particularly vulnerable as its weakened barrier is more sensitive to irritants and allergens.

Bacterial, viral and fungal skin infections and parasitic infestations⁸

Dry skin can compromise the skin's natural barrier, facilitating the entry and spread of pathogens such as bacteria (impetigo) and yeasts (dermatophytes). Scabies is a parasite that causes skin eruptions with pimples and severe itching. Certain viruses such as HSV (herpes), VZV (chickenpox, shingles) and HPV (the papillomavirus that causes warts) can create pimples on the skin.

Effective solutions and treatments

How can pimples associated with dry skin be treated?¹

The specific treatment for pimples depends on their underlying cause, which a doctor needs to identify. Keratosis pilaris and milia are benign conditions that disappear spontaneously; regular skin care and moisturising are sufficient. Acne, on the other hand, may require local or oral treatment depending on the severity of the symptoms.

For dermatitis, whether atopic or contact dermatitis, twice-daily moisturising, sometimes combined with the application of dermo corticoids during inflammatory flare-ups, forms the basis of treatment. Skin infections require targeted therapies, such as antibiotics for impetigo or antiparasitic treatments for scabies.

Then, to treat the pimples associated with dry skin, it is essential to follow basic dermatological care practices, including:
- gentle skin cleansing with a soap-free cleanser to avoid aggravating the dryness.
- regular moisturising twice a day to maintain the skin barrier.

Prevent the appearance of pimples on dry skin^{1 9}

Follow these expert tips to keep your skin healthy and prevent the discomforts associated with dry skin.

- Bath routine

To minimise the negative impact of baths and showers on dry skin:

Create a damp atmosphere by closing the bathroom door.
Opt for lukewarm rather than hot water.
Limit the length of your shower or bath to a maximum of 5 minutes.
Choose a gentle, soap-free cleanser and use it sparingly.
After bathing, gently dab your skin with a towel.
Immediately apply a moisturiser to retain moisture in the epidermis.

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- Post-cleaning hydration

Apply a moisturiser just after washing. Choose suitable, non-comedogenic moisturisers that contain no irritating or allergenic substances. Avoid formulas containing alcohol, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), perfumes, or retinoids, which can alter the skin's hydrolipidic film.

- Daily skin protection

Choose cotton or silk underwear and use hypoallergenic detergents.
In winter, avoid fireplaces and other sources of intense heat that can dry out your skin. Use air conditioners sparingly in summer.
Use a humidifier to maintain optimum humidity levels in your environment.

Use hypoallerggenic products

Avoid sources of intense heat

Use a humidifier

Specialist advice on maintaining optimal hydration¹ ⁹ ¹⁰

To effectively nourish dry skin, dermatologists recommend the following moisturising practices:

- Skincare routine: Establish a daily skincare routine, paying particular attention to facial skin, which is more vulnerable to external aggressors. This routine should include gentle cleansing followed by a moisturising cream in the morning and evening.

- Recommended moisturising products: Use skincare products specifically formulated for dry skin. These generally combine hydrophilic ingredients such as glycerol or urea, which attract water, with lipophilic components such as oils, which form a protective barrier. However, make sure you choose non-comedogenic products, especially if you are prone to acne.

- Consistency and perseverance: Effective moisturising isn't just about the occasional application of cream. Establish a rigorous daily routine, applying your moisturiser in the mornings and evenings to maintain constant hydration.

- Adaptation according to area: Take special care of the most vulnerable areas. The skin on the legs, which is often drier, may require more intensive care. With its thinner skin that is more exposed to environmental factors, the face deserves a specific, tailored skincare routine.

- Seasonal adjustment: In winter, opt for nourishing formulas (creams, ointments) to protect your skin from the drying effects of the cold. In summer, opt for lighter formulas such as gels and lotions.

When should I see a dermatologist?¹ ³ ⁶ ⁹ ¹¹

If you are uncertain about the cause of the pimples, consult a doctor and possibly a dermatologist. Many conditions can lead to pimples with dry skin. While some, such as keratosis pilaris, are benign and can disappear spontaneously, others, such as atopic dermatitis or rosacea, may require dermatological assessment and appropriate treatment.

Be particularly vigilant and do not hesitate to consult a doctor if you notice:

A change in the appearance of the pimples, increase in size, extension of the affected area, intensification of itching, etc.
Associated signs: fever, oozing, bleeding.
A significant impact on your quality of life: increased stress, sleep disturbance, repercussions on your social and professional activities.

What's more, atypical symptoms should alert you and warrant prompt consultation:

A sensation of pain or excessive heat in the lesions.
Sudden changes in the texture or colour of the surrounding skin.

An early and accurate diagnosis allows optimal treatment and can prevent complications.

Dexeryl Emollient Cream: moisturising care for dry, sensitive skin

Thanks to its unique formula, free from irritants such as perfumes and parabens, DEXERYL Emollient Cream prevents the signs of skin dryness and irritation:
- Glycerol retains water in the epidermis for long-lasting relief.
- Vaseline and paraffin form a protective film on the skin's surface, reinforcing the cutaneous barrier.

Make DEXERYL part of your daily skincare routine for supple, hydrated and protected skin.

Discover the Emollient Cream

References

1. Augustin M and al. Diagnosis and treatment of xerosis cutis - a position paper. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2019 Nov;17 Suppl 7:3-33.
2. Benedetti J. Description of Skin Lesions. MSD Manuals Professional Edition. 2022 Sep.
3. Sutaria AH and al. Acne Vulgaris. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.
4. AAD. 10 skin care habits that can worsen acne. American Academy of Dermatology Association. 2024 [Internet].
5. Pennycook KB, McCready TA. Keratosis Pilaris. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jun.
6. Farshchian M, Daveluy S. Rosacea. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Aug-.
7. Gallardo Avila PP, Mendez MD. Milia. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-
8. Barrett M, Luu M. Differential Diagnosis of Atopic Dermatitis. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am. Février 2017.
9. AAD. Dermatologists’ top tips for relieving dry skin. American Academy of Dermatology Association. 2024 [Internet].
10. Kim S and al. A consistent skin care regimen leads to objective and subjective improvements in dry human skin: investigator-blinded randomized clinical trial. J Dermatolog Treat. 2022 Feb;33(1):300-305.
11. L’Assurance Maladie. Dermatite atopique : que faire et quand consulter ? Ameli.fr. 2023 Sep.

Pimples on dry skin: causes, prevention and treatments

Understanding pimples on dry skin

Why can dry skin cause pimples ? ^{1 2 3}