Dry skin is a common condition that can affect anyone, especially in cold or dry climates. It can cause flaking, itching, cracking, and even bleeding of the skin. To take care of dry skin, you need to follow some basic steps to keep your skin hydrated and protected. Here are some tips from various sources:
Common Causes
#Dry skin can have causes that aren’t due to underlying disease. Examples include dry environment, frequently washing hands, inadequate hydration, swimming in a chlorinated pool or jobs that are rough on the hands such as mechanics or farming.
#Impaired skin barrier and deficiency of healthy fats in the top layer of the skin are a couple of the major causes of dry skin. Dead cells and natural oils establish the top layer and help in trapping moisture to keep the skin soft and supple, while also maintaining its elasticity. But when the water and moisture in this top layer go below its actual requirement, the skin stops producing its natural oils and changes its nature to dry.
Dry skin shrivels plump skin cells, which can lead to premature fine lines and wrinkles. Moisturizing traps water in your skin, which helps mask tiny lines and creases. It may take a few weeks of regular use of the product before you notice any improvement in your skin.
Use A Fragrance-Free Cleanser
Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that does not strip away your natural oils. Avoid hot water and limit your bathing time to 5 or 10 minutes’ fragrance-free gentle cleanser could be the solution to save your skin from dry, tight feeling that can lead to irritation, blemishes and, even worse, acne breakouts.
Use Coconut Oil
Coconut oil for dry skin can be used as a deep treatment to nourish dry and cracked skin, replenishing lost moisture and strengthening the skin barrier to retain it. Coconut oil has also been found to help treat eczema and reduce its symptoms of dry, scaly and itchy skin that is prone to rashes.Coconut oil is a natural oil that can be beneficial for dry skin. It contains fats that can moisturize your skin and keep it fresh and infection-free. It may also have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties that can protect your skin from various problems.
Protect Your Skin From The Sun And Wind
Protect your skin from the sun, wind, and cold by wearing sunscreen, lip balm, gloves, scarves, and hats. Sun exposure can dry out your skin and cause premature aging and skin cancer.For cold and windy days, consider wearing an emollient-rich sunscreen. This way you’re protected from the sun’s UV rays and the drying effects of the wind.
Drink Water
Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats. Water helps hydrate your body and flush out toxins. Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants and vitamins that can improve your skin health. Without adequate water intake, skin appears duller, and wrinkles and pores more prominent. Proper hydration levels help the skin to become plump and improves its elasticity meaning it’s less likely to crack and have irritations and blemishes.
Shifa Amin