Dry Patches on Skin: What Causes Them and How to Treat Them Effectively

Dry, flaky patches on your skin can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and sometimes even painful. Whether they appear on your face, arms, legs, or hands, these dry spots often seem to come out of nowhere — or linger far too long. If you’re wondering how to get rid of dry patches on skin and keep them from coming back, you’re in the right place.

At Dubois Beauty, we believe that addressing dry skin starts with understanding why it happens and using clean, effective products that support the skin’s natural barrier — not just cover up the problem.

What Causes Dry Patches on Skin?

Dry patches are often a symptom of compromised skin barrier function, but they can be triggered by multiple internal and external factors.

Weather-Related Causes

One of the most common reasons for dry patches on skin is seasonal change. In colder months, the air is drier and indoor heating reduces humidity even further, drawing moisture out of the skin. This results in tight, flaky, and sometimes itchy patches — especially on areas like the cheeks, chin, and hands.

In summer, sun exposure, chlorine from swimming pools, and air conditioning can also dehydrate the skin, contributing to uneven texture and dry spots.

Skin Conditions (Eczema, Psoriasis, and More)

Sometimes dry patches signal a chronic skin condition, including:

• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Characterized by inflammation, itching, and dry, scaly patches, especially in sensitive areas like the face, hands, and behind the knees.
• Psoriasis: Causes thickened, silvery plaques of skin that may crack or bleed. Common on the elbows, knees, and scalp.
• Seborrheic Dermatitis: Leads to greasy yet flaky patches, especially on the scalp and around the nose and eyebrows.
• Keratosis Pilaris: Bumpy, dry patches typically found on the upper arms, thighs, or cheeks.

If dry patches are persistent or inflamed, it’s important to identify whether a medical condition is contributing.

Product Irritation and Allergies

Dry, flaky skin can also result from using harsh or incompatible skincare products. Common culprits include:

• Soaps and cleansers with sulfates or alcohol
• Over-exfoliation with strong acids or physical scrubs
• Artificial fragrance, dyes, and preservatives
• Essential oils in high concentrations

Even natural or organic products can trigger dryness if they’re not pH-balanced or suited to your skin type. That’s why every formula in Dubois Beauty is designed to nourish the skin barrier using gentle, science-backed ingredients.

How to Treat Dry Patches Effectively

Treating dry patches requires a combination of gentle care, targeted hydration, and barrier repair. Here’s how to do it right:

Moisturizers with Occlusives and Barrier Builders

When it comes to dry patches, you need more than a basic moisturizer. The most effective treatments combine:

• Humectants – like hyaluronic acid to draw water into the skin
• Emollients – like squalane or natural oils to soften and smooth
• Occlusives – like shea butter or plant-based waxes to seal in hydration

For intensive hydration, we recommend:

Dew Drops Hydrating Serum – Powered by hyaluronic acid and Ectoin, this serum delivers deep hydration while supporting the skin’s ability to resist environmental stressors. Ectoin is a smart, multi-tasking molecule that protects cellular integrity and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), making it ideal for treating stubborn dry patches.

Dubois Beauty Mineral Mist – Use this before applying serum to help prime the skin and replenish essential trace minerals. It hydrates while soothing inflammation and boosting absorption of subsequent products.

Restorative Night Cream – This ultra-nourishing cream is rich in lipids and calming botanicals. It’s specifically formulated to support overnight repair and relieve dry, irritated skin — perfect for sealing in moisture and waking up to smoother, more supple skin.

Use these products together daily for a visible transformation in texture and hydration.

Avoiding Harsh Cleansers

Many cleansers can disrupt the skin’s acid mantle, leaving it vulnerable to dryness and irritation. For treating dry patches, it’s critical to:

• Avoid foaming cleansers with sulfates or strong surfactants
• Choose non-stripping, pH-balanced formulas
• Rinse with lukewarm water, never hot
• Pat skin dry instead of rubbing

The gentler your cleansing routine, the more effective your treatments will be.

When to See a Dermatologist

If your dry patches are not improving — or are getting worse — it may be time to consult a dermatologist. Look out for:

• Cracks that bleed
• Intense itching or discomfort
• Spreading redness or signs of infection
• Patches that persist for more than 2–3 weeks
• Scaling or plaques that resist moisturizers

A skincare professional can help determine whether your dryness is caused by an underlying skin condition or allergy and may prescribe medicated treatments as needed.

Preventing Future Dryness

Once your skin is smooth and clear, the next step is keeping it that way. Prevention is just as important as treatment — and it starts with healthy habits.

Humidifiers at Home

Indoor air — especially during winter — can be incredibly drying to the skin. Running a humidifier in your bedroom helps maintain healthy humidity levels, allowing your skin to retain more moisture as you sleep.

Tip: Keep your Dew Drops Serum and Restorative Night Cream nearby, and apply immediately after cleansing to take full advantage of your skin’s nighttime repair cycle.

Hydration from the Inside Out

Healthy skin isn’t just about what you put on it — it’s also about what you feed it.

• Drink plenty of water — Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces daily
• Eat skin-loving foods — Rich in omega-3s, like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts
• Limit dehydrating habits — Reduce caffeine and alcohol
• Take supplements — Consider adding a collagen peptide or omega-3 supplement for extra support

The more hydrated you are from the inside, the better your skin will respond to your skincare routine.

Final Thoughts: Heal and Prevent Dry Patches Naturally

Dry patches on skin may be common, but they don’t have to be permanent. Whether caused by harsh weather, sensitive skin, or a product reaction, you can repair and prevent dryness with the right combination of clean, high-performance skincare and supportive daily habits.

At Dubois Beauty, we formulate products that do more than hydrate — they restore, protect, and strengthen your skin barrier for long-term resilience and radiance. Our products are powered by nature, backed by science, and crafted with intention.

If dry patches are keeping you from feeling confident in your skin, start with a simplified, targeted regimen. Use your Mineral Mist, follow with the Dew Drops Serum, and finish with our Restorative Night Cream — and give your skin what it truly needs to heal.

Shop the Essentials for Dry Skin

Dew Drops Hydrating Serum
Infused with Hyaluronic Acid and Ectoin, this powerhouse serum hydrates deeply and protects against environmental stress.

Mineral Mist
A refreshing mist that calms, hydrates, and enhances the absorption of serums and moisturizers. Ideal as your first step post-cleansing.

Restorative Night Cream
Rich in ceramides, peptides, and nourishing botanicals. Supports overnight repair while restoring hydration and balance.

Explore the full collection at DuboisBeauty.com — where clean beauty meets spa performance.