Dry Skin Issues

Dry skin is an uncomfortable condition that causes scaling, itching, and cracking. It can occur for a variety of reasons. However, a person might have naturally dry skin. Surprisingly, even if their skin tends to be oily, they can develop dry skin from time to time. Dry skin can affect absolutely any part of the body. It commonly affects hands, arms, and legs. In many cases, lifestyle changes and over-the-counter moisturizers may be all that is needed to treat it. If those treatments aren’t enough, doctor consultation is essential.

Risk factors for dry skin:

Dry skin can affect literally anyone. But some risk factors raise the chances of developing dry skin, including:

• Age: Older adults are more likely to develop dry skin. As a person ages, their pores naturally produce less oil, raising the risk of dry skin.
  
  
• Medical history: A person is more likely to experience eczema or allergic contact dermatitis if they have a history of these conditions or other allergic diseases in the family.
  
  
• Season. Dry skin is more common during the fall and winter months when humidity levels are relatively low. In the summer, higher levels of humidity, however, help stop the skin from drying out.
  
  
• Bathing habits. Taking frequent baths or washing with very hot water raises the risk of dry skin.

Tips for Soothing Dry Skin

Household items often contain a vast number of chemicals and ingredients which could potentially cause dry skin by stripping the oils and moisture off of the skin. It includes cleaning products, floor polishes, air fresheners and laundry detergents. Additionally, dry skin could cause eczema or dermatitis. 

Here are some tips to prevent dry skin:

1. Wear gloves when working around the house

To take good care of the hands, a person needs to protect them from harsh household cleaners and dish detergents, which are widely proven skin irritants. Using non-latex rubber gloves when it’s time to scrub could also efficiently reduce drying out of hands. Or better yet, creating a double barrier of protection by wearing a pair of rubber gloves over a layer of thin, soft cotton ones before beginning work can result in better results for people with sensitive skin.

2. Coconut oil

Coconut oil is enriched with fatty acids called EFAs, therefore, coconut oil can help keep the skin hydrated and protected. However, a doctor’s advice should be taken about adding it to the diet to help keep the skin moisturized. It can also use it as a moisturizer and rubbed directly on the skin topically.

3. Petroleum jelly

If a person happens to have sensitive skin that’s easily bothered by household skin irritants, the best treatments contain the fewest ingredients which might sound super ironical. When abrasive household products touch the skin, they break down its protective barrier. Putting a chemical-laden moisturizer on top of an already weakened area leads to burning, stinging, itching, and redness.

On the contrary, because it contains only one ingredient, petroleum jelly is gentle on the skin. A person can use it to soothe dry skin, from their lips to their hands to their feet. Because it’s so safe and inexpensive, it can be applied as often as a person desires. 

4. Oatmeal bath

Oats have been used to treat dry skin for centuries. But only recently have researchers found what eases the itch: chemicals called avenanthramides that fight inflammation and redness.

To make the most of oats’ itch-fighting power, toss them into lukewarm bathwater. Grind either quick or old-fashioned oatmeal in a blender or food processor and slowly sprinkle it into the tub as the water runs. Then soak for at least 15 minutes.

5. Consume antioxidants and omega-3’s

When the skin ends up getting dry, it means it is being exposed to elements that are damaging skin cells faster than the body can repair. However, there are some foods that can help the skin appear healthier

Foods rich in antioxidants can minimize damage from toxins and help the body make healthy cells. Some of the foods that contribute to skin health include:

• Blueberries
• Tomatoes
• Carrots
• Beans
• Peas
• Lentils
  

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon may also contribute to a glowing-skin diet.

6. Avoid allergens and irritants 

Sometimes, a sudden occurrence of dry skin might be connected to the clothes a person is wearing. Sitting by the fireplace, spending time in chlorinated or chemically-treated water, or even wearing wool clothing could potentially irritate the skin and cause it to feel dry. 

Before the application of creams or lotions on the skin, make sure to go through the ingredients or components in order to avoid allergic reactions. Try to treat the skin as gently as possible, especially in rough areas.

7. Wash just once

As shocking as this might sound, during the fall and wintertime, it's advised to wash the face only once a day that is at night time. In the morning, just rinse the face with a splash of cold water. For the most gentle approach to cleansing, try swapping a lathering cleanser for a creamy facial cleanser.

Lifestyle Remedies for Dry Skin

Simple lifestyle changes can help in preventing and relieving dry skin. Try to:

• avoid using hot water to bathe or shower
• shower every other day instead of every day
• keep your shower time to less than 10 minutes
• use a moisturizing soap when you bathe or shower
• apply moisturizer immediately after bathing or showering
• pat, rather than rub, wet skin dry with a soft towel
• avoid itching or scrubbing dry skin patches
• use a humidifier in your home
• drink plenty of water

Take Away

Dry skin could cause discomfort and irritation to the person. There are various ways to reduce this condition, however, when using chemical-based treatments, a doctor’s advice is recommended.