The War Against Dry Skin

A lot of people suffer from dry skin, especially in the cold winter months. Cold and harsh weather along with the north wind can make the situation even worse. I have dry skin around my eyes, on my cheeks and forehead. I am always looking for ways to make it better. Here are some tips to help you in the fight against dry skin.

• First of all, make sure that your skin stays hydrated to help with the dry flakiness and itching. I use moisturizing lotions or creams which help.
• Always use products that are specially formulated for dry skin and also make sure that they say for sensitive skin because you don’t need products heavily perfumed, with harsh chemicals and make sure they are alcohol-free.
• If you find that your skin begins to feel dry and itchy make sure you moisturize it. During the day if I have fresh cucumbers at home I take cucumber skin and rub it all over my dry skin and it really helps. For dry skin on hands and feet at nighttime, you can use moisturizing butter such as shea or cocoa butter and once you have rubbed it in cover your feet with socks and your hands with gloves.
• Don’t take long baths or showers. I mostly take showers and I use a moisturizing bath gel. Also, you can rub yourself with baby oil after your bath or shower which will keep your skin moisturized. Rub in the oil without drying your skin.
• Don’t rub yourself dry just pat and don’t make your bath or shower water too hot.
• Don’t use soap for your skin. Use soap-free cleansers, non-alkaline body washes, and special bath soaps made for moisturizing the skin and as I mentioned previously moisturizing bath gel.
• Make sure not to wash your face more than twice a day. My routine is to wash my face in the morning and put on a moisturizing lotion to soak in or to rub with cucumber peel. Then washing in the evening before bedtime and using a special night cream.
• It is important to exfoliate the skin once or twice a week using a gentle exfoliating cleanser or scrub. Make sure you don’t rub your skin too hard instead gently massage the exfoliant into your skin using a circular motion and then rinse off with warm water.
• Make sure that the room temperature is not too hot because dry indoor heat can contribute to dry skin.
• If you like you can use a humidifier in your bedroom or you can place a bowl of water near a heat source to keep moisture in the air.
• Make sure to avoid harsh fabrics that can rub against your skin and cause dryness such as pure wool sweaters and scarves. Instead, wear fabrics which are more breathable like cashmere and cotton.
• When going out on winter day even when the day is cloudy make sure to use sunscreen. Don’t forget to use chapstick for your lips.
• To keep your skin hydrated drink plenty of water during the day. I also enjoy adding some fresh lemon to my water.
• If you have a condition that is more than dry skin like psoriasis or eczema be sure to ask a dermatologist for some advice.
• Last but not least eat a healthy diet such as soups with lots of vegetables which will provide you with the necessary vitamins and antioxidants.