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, but if it is on the surface of the skin it can quickly dehydrate your skin once it evaporates.

The salt in ocean water also acts as a dehydrating agent just like the chlorine in swimming pools. This is why fresh water showers are providing in public swimming pools as well as in some beaches; so that you can remove these drying agents from your body as soon as possible.

Once you've washed off the irritating agents, be sure to apply a natural skin moisturizer and some 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 summer it's normal for people to refresh themselves by drinking lots of fruity alcohol drinks, iced coffee, and caffeinated sodas, however, if you're not careful you're actually dehydrating your body instead of replenishing your body.

Instead, you should prefer to drink natural fruits juices and fresh fruit smoothies. Of course, your best bet is to drink fresh water. This can help you control your core temperature and keep you hydrated.

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

Be careful when exfoliating. In fact, if you are too aggressive when exfoliating, you may cause actual damage to 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.