[Doctor's Column] Internal Dryness Is Not Caused by a Lack of 'Moisture': The Real Cause of Skin That Feels Tight Even After Applying Moisturizer

There are people whose skin feels tight quickly even after applying cream immediately after washing their face, and whose cheeks and chin become rough by the afternoon. They commonly think that "drinking plenty of water will help" or "applying more moisturizing cream will solve the problem," but often, their skin remains dry from within no matter how many times they switch moisturizers. The real cause of these symptoms is not a lack of moisture in the skin, but rather moisture A structure that holds in place It is because the body itself was damaged.

▶ Q. Why isn't 'internal dryness' considered a lack of moisture?

On the outermost layer of the skin is a very thin protective layer called the 'stratum corneum.' Inside this stratum corneum, ceramide, cholesterol, and free fatty acids are arranged in a ratio of approximately 3:1:1 geological barrier This exists.

・When this lipid barrier is maintained normally, it prevents moisture from escaping from the inside of the skin to the outside (transepidermal water loss, TEWL).
Conversely, if the lipid barrier is damaged, even if you apply moisturizer to the surface, moisture escapes through the stratum corneum, causing persistent dryness that feels 'tight' from within.

2025 Experimental Dermatology According to a review published in [Journal Name], ceramide deficiency disrupts the continuity of lipid membranes within the stratum corneum, increasing transepidermal water loss, and this has been identified as a key mechanism of chronic skin dryness (Yong, 2025).

❙ Image: Produced by Maypure Doctor Column

▶ Q. Is there a reason why internal dryness worsens with age?

Skin barrier health is closely related to age. In a clinical study of 150 women, it was found that sebum secretion significantly decreases with age, and that skin surface pH increases, making barrier function more vulnerable, particularly in menopausal women (Kottner et al., 2013).

・Sebum forms a protective barrier on the stratum corneum, playing a role in slowing down moisture evaporation.
・When sebum secretion decreases, the 'natural protective layer' on the lipid barrier thins, making it easier to feel dryness from within even in the same environment.
In addition, if external stimuli such as UV rays, frequent washing, and surfactants are repeatedly applied, ceramide is lost, creating a vicious cycle.

▶ Q. Doesn't applying only moisturizer resolve inner dryness?

Conventional moisturizers work in two main ways.

・occlusive Petrolatum, mineral oil, etc., form a thin film on the skin surface to physically block moisture evaporation.
・Humectant Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, etc. attract moisture to temporarily hydrate the stratum corneum.

These ingredients are Temporarily improve the moisture environment of the surface It is effective for that purpose, but there are limitations in restoring the already damaged lipid barrier itself. 2024 Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology A review published in [Journal Name] also pointed out that it is difficult to restore the ceramide structure in the stratum corneum using only non-physiological lipids (Madnani et al., 2024).

It is difficult to directly replenish the quantity and quality of hyaluronic acid, which retains moisture deep within the dermis, using topical agents alone; replenishment and stimulation that reach the dermal layer are required.

▶ Q. What treatments are available at our Yeonsinnae branch?

At our Yeonsinnae branch, we offer the following treatments for concerns regarding internal dryness and skin barrier issues.

・Vitaran (Skin Booster) It is used for skin regeneration and hydration. The appropriate treatment method will be provided during the consultation after checking your skin condition.
・Liviexo (Exosome Skin Booster) As an exosome-based booster, you can expect both skin regeneration and soothing.
・Quadsay Quad Fusion By simultaneously injecting Microneedle Radiofrequency (MNRF) and a skin booster, it delivers the micro-stimulation and moisturizing ingredients necessary for barrier restoration.
・LDM (ultrasound care) This is a treatment that helps soothe the skin and restore the skin barrier after procedures. When performed in conjunction with laser or energy treatments, it aids in skin stabilization.

However, as the appropriate treatment may vary depending on the cause and severity of internal dryness, we will assess your skin condition during the consultation and provide guidance. Treatment effectiveness and recovery periods may differ from person to person.

▶ Q. Can I manage internal dryness in my daily life?

By reviewing your daily habits along with the procedure, you can reduce damage to the skin barrier and slow down the worsening of internal dryness.

・Please use lukewarm water when washing your face and avoid strong foam cleansers. Strong surfactants wash away ceramides from the stratum corneum, weakening the barrier.
・Please select a moisturizer containing ceramide. 'Physiological lipid' formulations containing ceramide, cholesterol, and fatty acids help restore the barrier structure.
・Please consistently apply sunscreen. UV rays oxidize lipids in the stratum corneum, reducing barrier function. Please use an SPF of 30 or higher daily.
・Please maintain indoor humidity at 40~60%. Dry environments increase transepidermal water loss. It is recommended to use a humidifier properly.
・Please reduce your drinking. Alcohol dilates skin blood vessels, promoting moisture evaporation and hindering the supply of nutrients necessary for skin barrier recovery.

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Chief Director Sim Dong-gyu of Maypure Clinic Yeonsinnae Branch
· Graduated from Korea University College of Medicine / · Master of Medical Science, Korea University Graduate School of Medicine / · Regular Member, International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery / · Regular Member, Korean Society for the Study of Obesity / · Regular Member, Korean Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Medicine / · Allegan Juvederm Expert Member

※ This post is intended to provide general information about the procedure, and the effects and recovery period may vary depending on individual skin conditions.
※ Please be sure to consult thoroughly with medical staff before the procedure. Swelling, bruising, and redness may temporarily occur after the procedure.

▶ References
1. Yong M. T. et al. “Ceramides and Skin Health: New Insights.” Exp Dermatol. 2025;34:e70042.
2. Kottner J et al. "Age-related changes in skin barrier function - quantitative evaluation of 150 female subjects." Int J Cosmet Sci. 2013;35(2):183-190.
3. Madnani N et al. “Revitalizing the skin: Exploring the role of barrier repair moisturizers.” J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024;23(6):e16171.
4. Del Rosso JQ, Levin J. “Understanding the Epidermal Barrier in Healthy and Compromised Skin.” J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2011;4(9):22-28.

#Yeonsinnae Dermatology #Internal Dryness Treatment #Yeonsinnae Skin Booster #Skin Barrier #Eunpyeong-gu Dermatology

Skin concerns vary from person to person. After a consultation, we will guide you to the most suitable treatment based on your records.
📍 Maypure Clinic Yeonsinnae Branch / 3F, Metro Tower (Directly Connected to Yeonsinnae Station) (856, Tongil-ro, Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul) / ☎ 02-389-9980
Clinic Hours: Weekdays 10:30–20:30 / Saturdays 10:00–17:00 / Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays