Everything You Need to Know About Chapped Skin

When dealing with chapped skin, dry, cracked skin that commonly appears on hands, lips, or other exposed areas. Also known as xerosis, it signals a weakened skin barrier and can invite discomfort or infection. A compromised skin barrier, the outermost layer that locks in moisture and blocks irritants is the main driver behind the problem. Restoring that barrier requires more than just wiping away flakes—it needs targeted moisturizers, formulations that replenish lipids and seal in water. Understanding chapped skin is the first step toward lasting relief.

Why the Barrier Breaks Down and How to Fix It

Several factors strip the barrier: frequent hand washing, harsh soaps, low humidity, and even certain medications. When the barrier loses its lipid matrix, transepidermal water loss spikes, leaving the surface raw and prone to cracks. The logical fix follows a simple triple: weak barrier → increased water loss → cracked skin. Applying a thick, occlusive moisturizer right after cleansing traps water and re‑establishes the lipid layer. Look for ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid, because they directly replace the missing building blocks.

Beyond creams, internal support matters. Recent research shows that probiotics, beneficial bacteria that influence the gut‑skin axis can improve barrier function from the inside out. Strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium lactis have been linked to higher skin hydration and fewer flare‑ups. Adding a daily probiotic supplement or probiotic‑rich foods can complement topical care, creating a two‑pronged defense.

For stubborn areas, especially on the face or lips, a gentle retinoid can accelerate skin renewal. Retino A, a prescription tretinoin cream that promotes cell turnover helps reset the barrier by encouraging fresh, healthy cells to surface. While more potent than standard moisturizers, retinoids should be introduced slowly—start with a pea‑sized amount every other night and pair with a robust moisturizer to prevent irritation.

Putting these pieces together gives you a clear roadmap: protect the barrier with the right moisturizer, boost internal health with probiotics, and, if needed, speed up repair with a retinoid. The next section of this page lists detailed articles that dive deeper into each of these strategies, from choosing the best ceramide cream to understanding probiotic dosing for skin health. Keep reading to find practical tips and science‑backed recommendations that will let you say goodbye to cracked, uncomfortable skin.