Dry skin (or xerosis) has a low level of sebum, which is the skin's natural lubricant. As it does not have enough sebum, it dries out easily and is unable to retain the right amount of moisture needed for healthy skin. This article contains:
- What causes dry skin?
- How artificial creams and supplements help in dealing with dry skin?
- How can you make your own beauty mask?
What Is Dry Skin and How Is It Caused?
Dry skin (or xerosis) has a low level of sebum, which is the skin's natural lubricant. As it does not have enough sebum, it dries out easily and is unable to retain the right amount of moisture needed for healthy skin.
A number of factors may cause dry skin. It is more common in winter when the cold outside and the heat inside contribute in drying up the skin. It can also be caused by hot water or harsh soaps. Poor diet or smoking can also cause or aggravate the problem. Dry skin may also be a symptom of other conditions, including dermatitis, eczema, ichthyoids, psoriasis, an under active thyroid and diabetes. Dry skin becomes more common as people age.
Problems Faced by People with Dry Skin
People with dry skin may find their skin cracks and peels or becomes flaky. Dry skin may look parched and feel tight after washing. It can also become red, irritated and inflamed. Dry itchy skin is a common problem for people with dry skin. In extreme cases, there may be deep fissures that bleed.
Dry skin ages more quickly than other types of skin. Wrinkles and fine lines can often become a problem.
Techniques for Dealing with Dry Skin
There are a number of things you can do for effective dry skin care. Baths and showers should be taken in warm, instead of hot, water, and should be kept as short as possible. Soap should be used sparingly. Mild cleansers and pure soaps are better. When drying your skin, use patting motions and avoid rubbing the skin too much. Try massaging your skin to increase the flow of natural oils.
Because cold and heat exacerbate the problems of dry skin, people with dry skin should protect their face and skin when going out into the wind or sun, and they should always wear a sunscreen.
Exercise, a good diet and enough sleep will all help keep your skin healthy.
NATURAL TECHNIQUES
- Instead of using a commercial cleanser, use a vegetable oil like olive oil or almond oil.
- Aloe Vera is very good for dry skin and it has healing and soothing properties.
- Calendula and comfrey soften the skin. They may be used in a facial sauna.
- Cold compresses can help alleviate dry itchy skin. Add a few drops of essential oil.
- Milk baths are very effective in the treatment of dry skin on the body. Add powdered milk and almond oil to a warm (not hot) bath.
- Herbal teas like chamomile, dandelion, peppermint, borage, fennel, coltsfoot or calendula help improve the skin.
- A good home remedy for dry skin is to make your own beauty mask. Combine an egg, honey, olive oil and rosewater. Apply onto your skin and leave it there for fifteen minutes before washing off.
- Another home remedy for dry skin is to mash some avocado and apply onto your face. Mashed banana also works well.
People with dry skin should eat a balanced diet that is rich in protein from vegetable sources and contains plenty of raw foods. Foods that are high in sulfur (like garlic, onions, eggs and asparagus) help keep the skin smooth. Vitamins A and C are good for skin, so foods containing these vitamins (like carrots and apricots) will help keep the skin looking healthy. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they cause the skin to lose fluids.
Vitamins
As well as including vitamins in your diet, vitamins for dry skin can be applied to your face. Products can be bought that include vitamins C and E, which excellent for dry skin care.
Hydration
Ensure your dry skin is kept hydrated. Drink plenty of water (at least eight glasses a day). A humidifier can also help keep your skin moist if the air is dry. Give your face a sauna by filling a bowl with boiling water and putting your face over it. Add some essential oils or herbs. (Chamomile, lavender and peppermint are good in a facial sauna for dry skin.) If you do add herbs, the water can be kept afterwards and used as a herbal toner.
USING ARTIFICIAL CREAMS AND SUPPLEMENTS
When cleaning your body, avoid using harsh soaps, alkaline soaps or products that contain alcohol or detergents. Instead use mild cleansers, mild soaps or natural-pH products.
Moisturizers need to be applied regularly. They should be applied in the morning and at night. Apply liberally, while your skin is damp. Thick greasy moisturizers or oil-based creams are good dry skin lotions. When choosing a moisturizer or lotion, try and find a lotion for dry skin. Ask your pharmacist or beauty consultant for the best lotion for dry skin, depending on your budget. Body oil (or baby oil) can help combat dry itchy skin or severely dry skin. Apply after a bath.
Petroleum jelly is very good in treating dry skin, but it can be messy to use. It is not really suitable for the face, but it is good in the treatment of dry hands. Put it on before going to bed and wear gloves.
For dry itchy skin, inflamed skin or a dry skin rash, there are special creams and lotions that can help solve the problem. Choose the lotion or cream that works best for your particular problem. If the over-the-counter lotions do not work, discuss the problem with your doctor. Some of the dry skin cures your doctor might prescribe include steroids, steroid creams or antihistamine pills. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking this type of medication.
SUPPLEMENTS
Evening primrose oil supplements are good for all skin conditions. Omega 3, antioxidants and multivitamins will also keep your skin looking healthy.
Conclusion
Dry skin care does not have to be difficult. The right dry skin lotion, a good diet and avoiding the things that contribute to causing dry skin can keep your skin healthy.
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