Dry skin can be an issue for anyone, but it doesn’t show up the same way on all skin tones. For darker skin, dryness often causes ashiness, dullness, uneven tone, or a rough, tight feeling that doesn’t improve with basic lotion. 

Ashy skin is skin that looks grey and dull and can also have a rough texture. This can appear on the face or the body and is particularly common on the elbows and knees. While not an official medical term, the term “ashy skin” often refers to the appearance of dry skin on darker skin tones.

Spending extended time in hot water contributes to moisture barrier damage and can strip the skin of its natural oils. Additionally, using harsh detergents or soaps can also compromise the skin’s moisture barrier. Both of these factors can contribute to dry, ashy skin.

Over time, untreated dryness can also lead to inflammation and dark spots that linger long after the skin feels better.

To keep skin bright and supple, it is good to cleanse and moisturise daily. Use a gentle cleanser that does not clog the pores. A good cleanser helps to remove dirt without stripping the skin of its natural oils. 

Use products containing humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, and lock it in with moisturisers or body lotions that feature ceramides and shea butter.

Specific skin issues, such as acne and dark spots, benefit from swift treatment and preventive techniques. To even out your skin tone and fade dark spots, incorporate brightening ingredients like Vitamin C, niacinamide, or azelaic acid into your routine. 

Melanin provides natural sun protection, but it does not make your skin immune to UV damage or hyperpigmentation. 

Since dry skin can be caused by long, hot showers or baths and harsh soaps or detergents, try to limit bathing time to 5-10 minutes using lukewarm water, and opt for gentle, hypoallergenic cleansers that won’t strip skin of its natural oils

To prevent the formation and worsening of dark spots and more serious health concerns such as skin cancer, experts recommend that everybody use sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher every day.

Stay away from abrasive scrubs and overly harsh soaps. In melanin-rich skin, physical irritation can trigger inflammation and actually cause more dark spots. 

Also, avoid products containing dangerous concentrations of hydroquinone, mercury, or unprescribed steroids. These can cause permanent damage, patchy discolouration, and weaken the protective covering of the skin that acts as a barrier.

If you notice your skin starting to feel dry and you’ve taken the precautions above, consult with a board-certified dermatologist to discuss potential sources of your dry, ashy skin, and to collaborate on steps to help manage or prevent it.