It is easy to take your skin for granted -- at least, that is, until it is causing you trouble. One of the most commonly-occurring skin conditions is dryness and/or itchiness. This problem can affect people of virtually any age, and its causes are also quite diverse. Thankfully, treating dry skin can oftentimes be done fairly easily from the comfort of your own home.
If you have been experiencing dry skin for less than two weeks, then we recommend giving a few of the following tips a try. If, on the other hand, your dryness is chronic, or does not respond to simple home remedies, then it is probably a good idea to visit a dermatologist in order to diagnose and treat the cause of your discomfort.
● Take smarter showers. One of the most harmful activities for our skin is also one of the most common and necessary: showering. Though bathing can help your skin by removing the dirt, oil, and other buildups that would otherwise clog pores, showering can also harm your skin if you are not careful. This is because excessive exposure to water, especially hot water, can entirely remove the natural oils meant to protect your skin. Making your showers shorter, using warm water rather than hot water, and drying your skin gently are the best ways to mitigate these potential issues.
● Use a moisturizer. A daily moisturizer can work wonders for dry skin -- especially if you are over the age of 40 and/or you use a daily acne treatment product.
● Give your lips a little extra love. The lips are more sensitive than most other areas
of the skin -- which is why lip balm is usually a good investment. If you notice that
your lips always seem to dry out faster than the rest of your skin, and lip balm doesn't seem to solve this problem, then you may wish to discuss your treatment options at your next appointment with your dermatologist.
● Keep an eye out for irritants. From the detergent used on your clothes to the
shampoo you wash your hair with, there are many sneaky irritants that could be
causing you trouble without you ever realizing.
● Avoid direct heat sources. Fireplaces, heating vents, stovetops, and other direct
heat sources can lead to dryness, so avoid spending too much time too close to any of these.
● Stay hydrated. Hydrate your body and your skin will stay moisturized. Drink plenty of water, stay indoors during peak heat hours, and avoid excessive alcohol
consumption and your skin will thank you!