Nine ways to improve dry and flaky skin
Dry skin is a problem for most people, especially in the winter. As the weather turns colder, the air begins to lose moisture, which in turn affects our bodies and makes our skin dry.
However, there are a bunch of nifty things you can do to ensure this does not happen to you. You can adhere to these tips and remain supple-skinned all year round.
Keep reading to know more about how to maintain supple and hydrated looking skin!
Apart from the season, even certain habits can aggravate issues like dry skin. Taking long and hot showers can also contribute to making your skin drier. Thankfully, there are a lot of ways to ensure that your skin remains moisturized so that you do not suffer from dry skin.
When we shower or wash our face, our skin immediately begins to dry out as the water is dried. To lock in the moisture, it is a better idea to use a moisturizer soon after. Do not shower in extremely hot water, when drying yourself with a towel, do not rub too harshly. When you shave, always use a shaving gel and a sharp razor.
And a big tip is to make sure you always moisturize your hands after you wash them since hands are the most susceptible to dryness in the winter months. You can also consider getting a humidifier for your home, according to experts.
And other than that, we have some tips for you to use to make sure you stay well moisturized at all times.
1. Olive Oil
Extra-virgin olive oil can help with dry skin a lot. But do not use it too much as that might not be a good idea. “Olive oil contains vitamin E, antioxidants, squalene, and other properties that repair damaged skin,” says licensed aesthetician Jennifer Adell. She is the senior aesthetician at New Beauty and Wellness in Westport, Connecticut.
Research has shown that olive oil can help reduce inflammation and help soften your skin. However, if you use it on its own, you might harm your skin barrier. So it might be a better idea to add a few drops to your face masks or apply to dry areas on part of your body which are not your face, such as your elbows.
2. Oatmeal
You might have heard of oatmeal baths for when your skin is irritated. It is also a good idea to add a cup of oats to your warm bath to help with hydration. It helps soothe dry skin and itchy skin.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is used in a lot of home remedies, including for dry skin. “Coconut oil becomes a solid at room temperature, so use it as a moisturizing cream at bedtime or anytime,” Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, recommends. Shainhouse says it is especially beneficial “For chapped heels and hands, apply the oil, then layer with thick socks or non-latex gloves.”
4. Milk Compress
“Milk has natural anti-inflammatory properties,” says Shainhouse explains. “It also contains lactic acid, a mild, natural exfoliant,” she says. This helps hydrate the skin while ridding your skin of dead cells. However, if your skin is cracked then you should avoid this method.
You can make your own milk compress by soaking a clean washcloth in a bowl of cold milk.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is used as an aftershave balm as well but it can also help with dryness. Since aloe vera also contains mucopolysaccharides like hyaluronic acid, it helps trap moisture in the skin. However, we would recommend that you test a patch of your skin before applying it all over your body.
6. Honey
Holdd is also a great topic treatment for dryness. Research shows that it can help with healing and has anti-inflammatory properties. You can use it as spot treatment on particular areas which are extra dry or rough patches on your body. Again, we recommend you test a patch before you apply it on bigger areas.
7. Petroleum Jelly
A big favorite is petroleum jelly, mostly known as Vaseline or Aquaphor in the market. Most people always have a bottle of it at home, especially in the cold months. The main ingredient these two brands use is petroleum jelly. It massively helps in alleviating dryness and providing protection from chaffing. It is also incredibly safe to apply on your body. But of course, you have to be careful when you are applying it to the face, chest, or back if you have acne prone skin.
8. Dry Skin Products
There are a lot of products available in the market these days that cater specifically to dry skin. The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends ointments or creams over lotions. They advise people to be on the look out for ingredients like Dimethicone, shea butter, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, lanolin, mineral oil, petrolatum and jojoba oil.
9. Fragrance Free
Another great recommendation is to opt for fragrance-free skincare items. This is not the same as ‘unscented’ as these still contain chemicals which help neutralize the smell of the products.
If you use these tips but still do not seem an improvement, it is best to consult a professional expert like a dermatologist.
Share these tips with others so they can keep their skin healthy during this cold winter season!
