Chapped lips, dry hands, and leathery feet might seem like minor irritations. But for some people, constant bouts of dry skin can be a real pain in the neck — or any other part of the body that suffers from itchy, flaky patches. Here are some valuable tips to keep the skin soft and healthy:
Moisturize the Skin
Skin moisturizers rehydrate and seal the top layer of skin cells, helping combat dry skin. They are made of 3 sets of ingredients:
Humectants like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, sorbitol, ceramides, and lecithin help attract moisture.
Other ingredients like silicone, mineral oil, petroleum jelly (or petrolatum), and lanolin help seal in moisture.
Emollients such as lauric, linolenic, and linoleic acids make the skin smooth by filling in gaps between skin cells.
Generally, the greasier and thicker a moisturizer, the more effective it is. Some of the least expensive and most effective are moisturizing oils (like mineral oil) and petroleum jelly. To seal in moisture, one can use them on the skin while still damp since they don’t contain water.
Use a Humidifier
To keep the skin healthy during winter, it is recommended to use a humidifier. It’s best to set it to about 60 percent; this level should provide the right amount of moisture for the top layer of the skin.
Limit the Number of Showers
Bathe only once every day, and limit the shower duration to 5-10 minutes. Frequent baths may strip away the skin’s natural moisture and oils. Since hot water washes away natural oils, it is better to shower with lukewarm water.
Reduce the Use of Soaps
Try to stay away from soaps. If needed, opt for moisturizing products or try soap-free cleansers. Stay away from scented soaps, alcohol products, and deodorant soaps, which may strip away the skin’s natural oils.
Some other ways to combat dry skin are:
Stay away from washcloths, bath sponges, and scrub brushes
Use a moisturizer after washing hands and bathing
Avoid scratching at all costs
Blot or pat the skin while towel drying
Use a cold compress or pack to relieve itchy patches
Avoid fabric softeners and opt for fragrance-free laundry detergents
