
Dry skin treatment at Cannelle Skin Clinic in Oxford focuses on restoring moisture, repairing the skin barrier and improving texture. Doctor led care with tailored in clinic treatments and ZO Skin Health support.
Dry skin is a common condition where the skin lacks sufficient moisture and protective lipids. This can lead to roughness, flaking, tightness or dullness across the face or body. In more severe cases, dry skin can become itchy, sensitive or prone to redness. At Cannelle Skin Clinic in Oxford we take a medically grounded approach to dry skin, working to strengthen the skin barrier, improve hydration and restore long lasting comfort.
Dry skin can affect anyone, regardless of age or skin type. While some individuals naturally produce less oil, others may develop dryness due to lifestyle, environmental factors or the use of unsuitable skincare products. A doctor led assessment helps determine the underlying cause of your dryness and provides a clear pathway back to healthy, balanced skin.
The skin’s barrier is made up of natural oils, lipids and cells that lock in moisture and protect against irritants. When this barrier becomes compromised, water escapes more easily and the skin struggles to retain hydration. This is known as transepidermal water loss. Several factors can contribute to this.
Genetics: Some people simply have naturally dry skin and produce fewer protective oils.
Age: As we age, oil production decreases and the skin becomes thinner, which makes dryness more noticeable.
Environment: Cold weather, low humidity, central heating and harsh winds can dehydrate the skin.
Skincare habits: Over cleansing, exfoliating too aggressively or using products that strip the skin can weaken the barrier.
Medical conditions: Eczema, dermatitis and other sensitivities can cause persistent dryness.
Lifestyle: Hot showers, limited water intake or high stress can influence moisture levels.
Understanding why your skin feels dry helps us select the right treatments, products and habits to restore balance.


Dryness can affect both the face and body. Common areas include:
Some individuals experience dryness only in winter, while others struggle with it year round. At Cannelle Skin Clinic we assess whether the dryness is a temporary reaction or part of an underlying barrier issue.
Dry skin can affect children, adults and older individuals. It is especially common in:
Dry skin is not always linked to poor hydration. Even individuals who drink plenty of water can experience dryness if their skin barrier cannot hold onto moisture effectively. This is why strengthening the barrier is essential.


Explore our frequently asked questions from patients in Oxford considering dry skin treatment.
Dry skin can develop due to genetics, environmental exposure, skincare habits or age related changes. A weakened skin barrier allows moisture to escape which leads to dryness and roughness.
Dr Mattia examines your skin to understand moisture levels, barrier strength, sensitivity and contributing factors. This allows a personalised treatment plan to be created.
HydraFacial, skin boosters, hydrating peels, LED therapy and ZO Skin Health skincare can all support hydration and barrier repair.
Yes, but results are more effective when combined with professional guidance. Using the right cleanser, moisturiser and barrier repair products can reduce dryness significantly.
Not always. You can drink plenty of water and still experience dryness if the skin barrier is unable to retain moisture. Strengthening the barrier is key.
Dry skin and eczema share similarities but they are not the same. Eczema is an inflammatory condition. Dry skin is often a barrier issue. A consultation helps determine the difference.
Many patients notice improvement within weeks once the correct treatments and products are in place. Deep hydration and barrier repair deliver longer term results.
Yes. Treatment plans are adapted to your sensitivity level to ensure comfort and safety.
At Cannelle Skin Clinic in Oxford, we offer a selection of complementary options that support hydration, strengthen the skin barrier and improve overall comfort. Treatment plans are created by Dr Mattia Parducci, ensuring every recommendation is thoughtful, balanced and tailored to your individual needs for long-term skin health.