Dry skin is usually a big issue during the winter because of central heating, open flames, and the cold wind outside, however, the sunniest season of the year can also rob your skin of moisture.

If you think I'm bluffing, here are some reasons why you can get dry skin during summer and what you have to do to prevent it.

Spending a lot of time in the water (swimming pool, lake or ocean) can make your skin dry out. Water can hydrate your skin if it is ingested. However, water on the surface of your skin can rapidly dehydrate your skin when it evaporates.

Matters get worse when the water that is on your skin comes from the ocean or a pool. Ocean water contains salt which is a dehydrating agent, while pools are packed with chlorine. This is why fresh water showers are providing in public swimming pools as well as in some beaches. Once you get out of the ocean or pool, remove these drying agents from your skin as soon as possible.

Once you have removed any irritating agent from your skin, be sure to apply a skin moisturizer in addition to your normal sunblock. This may seem tedious, but it if you want to protect your skin during summer and still be able to play in the sun, then your best bet is to follow these simple steps.

Another way to get all the dry skin relief you need without having to get out of the water, is by using a shielding lotion. Shielding lotions contain a high level of silicone which help keep the lipid barrier of your skin intact. The layer of shielding lotion will repel water from the surface of your skin; however, you have to make sure that you apply it before getting your toes wet.

Drinking in excess, be it alcohol or caffeine, can also cause your skin to dry out. During the summer, it's not uncommon for people refresh themselves by drinking fruity alcohol drinks, iced coffee, and caffeinated sodas. However, watch your intake or you may dehydrate your body.

Instead, prefer natural fruits juices or fruit smoothies. Of course, your best option is to drink fresh, cool water. This can help your body stay hydrated while keeping your core temperature down.

Your cleansing routine is also important during the summer. To help your skin absorb moisturize in the best possible manner, it is advisable to exfoliate. Exfoliating helps you remove dead skin cells and prepares your skin to be moisturized.

There is no need to exfoliation forcefully. In fact, if you use too much force, you can actually damage your skin. You can use salt or sugar for a thorough exfoliation or a natural product that contains micro-crystals for a gentle and effective exfoliation.

To help hydrate your skin even further, it is important to use the right moisturizer or moisturizing products. Dry skin requires a very creamy, thick moisturizer. If you choose you can even use oils, such as olive oil or rose hip oil to get a better hydration.