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Rough/Granulated Skin

Definition: Skin grain exhibiting an uneven, thick, granular, and rough texture in both appearance and touch, which also tends to crack and peel. This roughness is often due to skin dryness and the accumulation of dead cells. This phenomenon is explained by a weakening of the skin's protective barrier: water then evaporates abnormally, which accelerates the rate at which the skin loses its natural hydration, leading to the abnormal detachment of dead cells.

Internal and external causes: Genetic predisposition, seasonal variations, skin conditions (atopic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, ichthyosis, etc...), age, medication treatments (certain antibiotics, oral acne medications, etc...), use of harsh/abrasive products, hormonal influence (adolescence, pregnancy, menopause), climatic conditions (hot air, dry air, cold), frequent and prolonged sun exposure, frequent washing, long showers or baths.

How to reduce or eliminate: Apply skincare products containing hydrating and lipid-replenishing active ingredients to restore the skin barrier and thus balance the water content in the upper layers of the epidermis, as well as to regulate the process of skin flaking (ceramides, urea, polyglutamic acid, squalane, hyaluronic acid, etc...); gently exfoliate the skin with keratolytic agents to promote the removal of dead cells (salicylic acid, lactic acid, gluconolactone, etc...).

Preventative steps to take: Wash with lukewarm water; avoid tight clothing and irritating fabrics like wool (a source of friction); protect your skin from the cold and the sun; moisturize your skin daily; reduce the time spent in the shower or bath; opt for clothing made of natural fibers like cotton or silk; drink a sufficient amount of water; limit hand contact with detergents by wearing gloves; avoid grainy scrubs and over-exfoliation.