How to Treat Dry Skin
Some people are born with dry skin that can only be relieved by the application of moisturizers. Extremely dry skin, however, is a different issue altogether and may be a symptom of dermatitis that needs immediate treatment.
If dry skin isn’t caused by any serious medical condition, what can you do to remedy the rough and scaly patches on some parts of your body, such as the arms and legs?
It Starts with Bathing
Not just regular bathing, but correct bathing practices should be observed to avoid making the dryness worse. Limit your time in the bathroom to less than 10 minutes and don’t shower in hot water.
Use mild soap and shampoo, but use only small amounts. Then dry your skin by blotting gently, not by rubbing excessively. Finally, apply a moisturizer right after drying. Avoid skin and hair products that contain alcohol, retinoids, antibacterial properties, and fragrance.
Moisturizers are Your Friends
You also need to apply a moisturizer after washing your hands or your face to avoid dryness, so you should always carry a hand cream and a lip balm whenever you go out. Pick products are mild and fragrance-free.
Some dermatologists are partial to cream and ointment forms than lotions, because some lotions usually contain a lot of ingredients that can irritate the skin. Instead, look for products that contain shea butter, mineral oil, lanolin, hyaluronic acid, olive oil, jojoba oil, glycerin, lactic acid, petrolatum, urea, and dimethicone.
Change Your Laundry Detergent
The detergent you use to wash your clothes can also make your dry skin worse. Use only products that are labelled hypoallergenic and avoid products that contain a lot of irritants such as fabric softeners. The type of fabric you pick can also cause irritation, so stick to cotton, wool, and silk if you can.
Watch Out for Temperature Changes
Staying for long periods in an air-conditioned room can cause your skin to dry, but so is sitting near an open flame. Changes in the temperature or exposure to heat or cold can cause your skin to dry, that is why you should also carry a moisturizer with you if you can’t avoid these situations.
Talk to Your Dermatologist
Dry skin is caused by lack of trapped moisture in the skin that could be a result of harsh chemicals, aging, or an underlying medical condition. If you don’t see any improvement on your dry skin, it’s time to see a dermatologist to make sure that it isn’t caused by other medical problems. The doctor can also prescribe ointments or creams for dry skin or determine if you need to undergo any skin treatment procedure.