Causes of Surface Dryness and Treatment Options: What You Should Know

'Surface dryness' is not so much a standardized medical term as a common expression referring to a state where the skin's surface is particularly rough, flaky, and appears dull. Academically, terms like 'xerosis' or 'dry skin' are used, describing a condition where the skin has less moisture than normal.

This article covers why surface dryness occurs, what treatment options are available, and what kind of care may help during the recovery period after treatment. Whether to undergo treatment and which method to choose depends on skin condition, so consultation with a specialist is necessary.

Why Does Surface Dryness Occur?

Xerosis is reported to occur when the skin's oil-moisture balance is disrupted. Changes in lipid secretion due to aging lead to damage in the skin barrier, and increased moisture loss during this process is explained as one of the main mechanisms.

The causes are known to involve a combination of external and internal factors. External factors such as dry environments, frequent washing or bathing, UV exposure, and vigorous scrubbing, along with internal factors such as aging, ichthyosis, atopic dermatitis, and chronic kidney failure, are commonly mentioned together. Clinically, mild redness, skin cracking, flaking (scaling), and rough surface texture are often reported, with a tendency to appear more commonly during cold, dry seasons.

For reference, according to specialist opinion, the dry, rough, flaky condition mainly observed in older adults is referred to as 'xerosis,' while if accompanied by dermatitis, it is distinguished as 'xerotic dermatitis (dry eczema).' Diagnosis is generally possible through visual observation, and skin moisture measurement devices may be used as a supplementary tool when necessary.

What Treatments Are Available for Improving Surface Dryness?

Treatments and care aimed at improving surface dryness can be broadly divided into care that refines surface texture and injection methods that directly replenish moisture. Hydration care focuses on refining surface texture and adding moisture, while LDM care aims to provide soothing and moisture support through micro-stimulation.

In cases where moisture deficiency is pronounced, injection methods that directly replenish moisture components into the skin, such as full-face water-glow or water-glow injections, may also be considered together. Full-face water-glow aims to evenly replenish moisture across the entire face, while water-glow injections work by replenishing moisture components.

If roughness and flaking on the surface are the main concerns, texture-refining care is often prioritized, while if moisture deficiency itself is the issue, replenishing methods are often considered first. If the skin is in a sensitive state, the approach may be adjusted to focus more on soothing, so it is recommended to determine the specific choice through consultation.

Recovery Process and Downtime for Surface Dryness Treatments

Care related to surface dryness is generally known to be relatively low-burden, but depending on the method, mild redness may temporarily appear right after treatment. Recovery speed and the degree of perceived effect vary depending on individual skin condition and the treatment method used.

The duration of effects also varies by individual. Since surface dryness is easily influenced by environmental changes and lifestyle habits, the skin may become rough again over time, which is why some cases involve repeating care at certain intervals depending on the condition. The interval is best determined through consultation with a specialist based on individual condition.

Why Home Care During the Recovery Period After Treatment Matters

Right after treatment is a period when the skin surface can temporarily become sensitive and prone to increased moisture loss. Minimizing irritation during this period and combining it with home care that reinforces hydration and moisture can help support the treatment's goals of refining surface texture and enhancing moisture.

Surface dryness in particular tends to become more pronounced when the skin barrier is weakened, so care that addresses both soothing and hydration during the recovery period is necessary. However, since care methods and product choices may vary depending on individual skin condition, it is advisable to refer to guidance from a specialist.

Home Care Determines Recovery After Treatment

Since the surface tends to become sensitive right after treatment, care focused on soothing and barrier support can be helpful. AB'ZOO Cream is structured in 2 steps to align with this recovery process. STEP1 Ultra Cera-Rich focuses on soothing redness and barrier care right after treatment, while STEP2 Hydro Re-Boosting focuses on deep hydration care during the subsequent recovery period. STEP1 may be referenced after treatments using lifting or thermal energy, while STEP2 may be referenced after skin booster-type treatments like water-glow injections. The actual use and method should be decided after consulting with the medical institution where the treatment was received.

Medically reviewed by 아비쥬의원 의료진. (September 10, 2026)