Dry Air? We Care! How to Deal with Dry Skin

Been complaining about dry and itchy skin lately? We’ve got you!

Dry skin isn’t exactly a walk in the park. It itches. It’s uncomfortable. It causes your skin to look red and scaly (not ideal). You’ve got dry skin patches all over. And sometimes, it just feels rough with cracking and torn edges. If there’s any major complaint about winter and spring, dry skin is it. So, how can you deal?

The Good & The Bad News

The bad news: Dry skin is often hereditary and it can sometimes go hand-in-hand with certain medical conditions.

The good news: You can take on certain routines and habits to improve your skin - and it’s not just all about the face. We’re talking hands, feet, and across your whole body. Let’s do an entire skincare overhaul!

So, let’s dive into more of that good news. How can you keep your skin healthy? What can you do?

First Line of Defense: Preventing Dry Skin

Dry skin is not inevitable - even if it’s in your genes. The first step in fixing any problem is preventing it in the first place. Dry skin happens when your skin is inflamed and lacks moisture. And prolonged dry skin can actually lead to dermatitis and more skin problems.

Here are the preventative measures you need to start taking to prevent further deterioration of the biggest organ in your body, your skin:

1. Quit the Long and Hot Showers

Now, I know hot showers can be oh-so welcoming in the colder months, but those long durations in the shower are wrecking your skin. The hot water takes the oil out of your skin. The result? It ends up drier and more scaly than ever before. Instead, aim to keep your showers to 5-10 minutes max. Curl up in some warm and cozy blankets after for those long warm shower vibes you crave.

2. Gently Cleanse with Moisturizer

If you have persistent dry skin, it’s time to opt for some products that are sensitive to that. Choose unscented and soap-free options for shower gel or cleansers. It’ll help - trust me.

3. Moisturize As Soon As You’re Out of The Shower

Before you take off your towel and put on your clothes, moisturize your entire body. First, pat the water dry then go nuts. This can help lock in moisture, preventing your skin from becoming uncomfortably dry.

4. Bring Moisturizer With You Wherever You Go!

Like that small bottle of hand sanitizer, bring that moisturizer with you. Whether you’re out for a walk or a drive or you sanitize your hands after the grocery store, you’ll be so thankful you brought that small bottle to rehydrate your delicate skin!

The Second Line of Defense: You’ve Got Dry Skin, Now What?!

Alright, so you’re past prevention. It’s happening. Your skin is red, uncomfortable, and itchy. Try these tips on for size:

1. Get a humidifier

In the winter, air everywhere tends to be dry. The humidifier can help prevent this indoors and lessen your dry skin discomforts.

2. Drink water

It’s fairly obvious but sometimes not that obvious. The human body is 60% water and your skin needs hydration to avoid getting too dry.

3. Watch your materials

Stay away from wool or synthetic fabrics. Cotton offers the most comfort for dry skin.

4. Use Petroleum Jelly

Cover cracking skin with petroleum jelly. This can help trap moisture under the skin.

5. Eat Well

Eat those omega-3s and fill up on antioxidants. Try blueberries, fish, carrots, beans, and more to get these nutrients in!

6. Avoid wearing make-up

... at least for the time being. Anything on your skin can irritate it and create further issues.

7. Try Skincare serums

These might help improve the overall health of your skin and boost better moisture retention.

8. Moisturize

Which leads into the following section; what’s the best moisturizer for dry skin?

The Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Choosing the right moisturizer can make all the difference. And with an array of moisturizers out there, it can be hard to select the right one. In the best case scenario, you want an unscented variation and a moisturizer made for sensitive skin. Sometimes, the best ones are all-natural variations. Typically, it takes a few tests to find one that’s right for you and your skin.

Here are some you can start trying:

1. Nivea Soft Moisturizing Cream

You can get face and body variations of this moisturizer, as well as face-only options. This type of moisturizer also easily absorbs into the skin which prevents it from getting oily.

2. The Body Shop Moisturizers

The Body Shop derives its name from taking care of your body, meaning their products are made to treat your skin right. Plus, again, there are plenty of options to choose from which means you can probably find a cream or moisturizer that works for you.

3. Eucerin Dry Skin Replenishing Cream

This brand offers a full skin repair. All their products are based on clinical findings and dermatologist’s advice.

4. Andalou Moisturizing Products

This brand boasts all-natural ingredients. These creams also help renew and regenerate your skin, so that your skin will bounce back from dullness to glowing and refreshed looks.

5. Kiehl’s Facial Cream

Rejuvenate your skin with Kiehl’s. This is another reputable brand that can help you combat those dry skin blues and overcome them just in time for summer.

Don’t Get Down About Your Dry Skin!

Start taking the proper measures to prevent and deal with your dry skin. It’s entirely possible! However, if your dry skin persists, it may be a sign of dermatitis or another skin condition. Consider consulting with your doctor or dermatologist to determine your treatment options. Say goodbye to bothersome dry skin for good!

Worried about your skin as you age? Check out this Daily Life article on aging gracefully.