Alpha Keri: Understanding Skin Hydration
- Australian Health & Aged Care
- May 1
- 3 min read
Dry skin is a common issue that can affect anyone, regardless of age or skin type. It’s more than just a cosmetic problem; it can cause discomfort, irritation, and even lead to more serious skin conditions if untreated. Knowing the causes of dry skin can help you better care for your skin and prevent its onset.
Top triggers for dry skin
Several factors contribute to dry skin, often in combination. The most common causes include:
Physiological factors: As we age, the skin’s ability to retain moisture decreases. Hormonal fluctuations, genetics, and underlying health conditions can also affect skin hydration.
Over cleansing: Using harsh soaps or over-cleansing strips the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. It also weakens the skin’s barrier, making it more susceptible to environmental stressors.
Cold weather: Cold temperatures and low humidity during winter can dry out the skin. Indoor heating further exacerbates this by removing moisture from the air.
Prolonged sun exposure: Sunburns and prolonged sun exposure dehydrate the skin and break down its protective barrier, causing irritation.
Lifestyle factors: A poor diet, dehydration, and nutritional deficiencies can lead to dry skin. Lack of water or essential fatty acids can make the skin look dull and feel rough.
Insights on skin sensitivity and hydration needs
High prevalence of sensitive skin: Around 60 percent of Australians have sensitive skin, with women more often affected than men.
Widespread skin dehydration: 97 percent of Australians suffer from dehydrated skin, which can lead to various issues, including increased sensitivity.
Multiple skincare products: A staggering 95 percent of people use between 1 and 6 different products in their skincare routine, indicating that consumers are actively seeking solutions to maintain healthy, hydrated skin
How skin hydration works
Your skin is the largest organ in your body, playing a vital role in regulating temperature, providing protection, and maintaining a barrier to external irritants. The outer layer of the skin, known as the Stratum Corneum, consists of corneocytes — dead skin cells packed with keratin. These cells help prevent water loss, keeping the skin hydrated.
When the skin loses moisture, the barrier weakens. This leads to dryness, irritation, and reduced defence against external factors. For this reason, maintaining skin hydration is crucial for overall skin health.
The role of moisturisers in skin hydration
Moisturisers are essential in restoring skin hydration. They help by:
Replenishing moisture: Moisturising products reintroduce hydration to the skin, softening the outer layer and reducing dryness.
Restoring the skin’s barrier function: An effective moisturiser helps restore the skin’s natural barrier, preventing further moisture loss.
Providing long-term hydration: Quality moisturisers create a protective layer on the skin, locking in moisture throughout the day.
Alpha Keri: a proven solution for dry, sensitive skin
With over 50 years of market heritage, Alpha Keri is known for its dermatologist-approved formulations that cater specifically to dry, sensitive, and fragile skin.
Alpha Keri’s lanolin-based formula deeply nourishes and restores moisture, helping to strengthen the skin's natural barrier. Whether you’re looking for relief from dryness caused by the changing seasons, harsh cleansers, or other lifestyle factors, Alpha Keri’s range of moisturising products—such as the Gentle Wash, Shower and Body Oil, and Moisturising Lotion—deliver soothing hydration without irritation.
Suitable for the whole family, Alpha Keri products provide gentle, long-lasting hydration, ensuring your skin stays soft, smooth, and protected.
Available at Chemist Warehouse.
0400 002 570
