Dry skin problems can come from a number of different causes, but one of the most forgotten ones is medications and other drugs. Medications and drugs can cause a number of side effects, including dry skin and other skin conditions. There are specific medications that can have a harsher effect than others and some medical conditions can contribute to dry skin. Always talk to your doctor and pharmacist about the possible side effects caused by both your current and new medications. Some times your dose can be changed to alleviate dry skin or other medication options can be explored.
High Blood Pressure Medication
Some medications for high blood pressure include diuretics, which can cause or worsen dry skin conditions. If when you started or changed the dose of your high blood pressure you experienced some of the symptoms of dry skin (including itching, scaly appearance, dry to the touch or sensitivity to skin products), you should speak with your doctor about other options. Always ask your pharmacist to show you the ingredients list of your medication when you pick them up.
Allergy Medication
Antihistimines are the culprit in these medications. Dry skin can be caused by antihistimines because they are suppressing your skins reaction to pollutants in the air. This can sometimes keep your natural oils from producing the needed amount for your skin to be healthy. Since many allergy medications also suppress itching, you may not immediately notice this as a symptom of dry skin. Instead, be aware of how your skin feels to the touch, the appearance of small bumps or a scaly look, and a lack of a shiny appearance.
Acne Medication
Since the treatment of acne involves removing excess oil from trouble spots, the medication you use may be too harsh and strip away too much of your natural oils, which will leave skin dry and unhealthy. Most acne medications contain Retinoids, which can cause this effect. You can speak with your dermatologist about switching to a different acne medication, which will be a little less harsh on your skin and allow some of the natural oils to stay present. Also talk to your doctor about different ways to combat acne to potentially avoid the use of medications which may cause your skin to become dry.
Other Medications
With all medications, you should be hyper-aware of the side effects when you first start taking them. Watch for dry skin with the symptoms mentioned above, and report these reactions to your doctor and pharmacist immediately. Most medical conditions offer a variety of medications that can be used, giving you the opportunity to change medications or tweak your dose.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Since over-the-counter medications are often not under your doctor's control, you'll need to be proactive in avoiding the ingredients that can potentially cause dry skin. Look for the ingredients and the types of medications listed above. Your pharmacist is always there to answer questions.
Dry skin can be caused by a number of different things, but medications and drugs are often overlooked when seeking a cause. As with all side effects, dry skin can be among them and should be considered when looking for a solution to your dry skin.
