Dry skin is a widespread condition that can affect any part of your body, from the face to your toes. It’s caused by many factors like climate, diet and genetics; thankfully there are ways you can take to help relieve and treat dryness on your own.
1. Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced and healthy diet can help minimize the appearance of dry skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fish helps keep your skin hydrated by providing antioxidants which protect it from environmental toxins and irritants. These foods also contain essential fatty acids which may aid in healing damaged cells from inside out.
2. Exfoliate Daily
Exfoliating your skin regularly is beneficial to remove dirt, oil and makeup. Make sure your cleanser is free from sulfates to avoid drying it out.
3. Avoid Harsh Soaps and Detergents
Some soaps can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry. Opt for a soap that is fragrance-free and gentle on your skin.
4. Avoid Long, Hot Showers or Baths
Prolonged, hot showers and baths can irritate your skin, so try to limit them as much as possible.
5. Use a humidifier
Humidifiers add moisture to the air, helping moisturize your skin in cold climates or when working outdoors. They’re especially helpful if you live in or around cold climates.
6. Moisturize Your Skin Daily
To combat dry skin, look for products with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides – which make up over 50% of the surface of your skin and help retain moisture.
7. Exfoliate Regularly
To rid yourself of dead, flaky and dull skin cells, exfoliate twice a week with an exfoliating wash or scrub. This will increase moisture absorption in your skin and allow it to resurface faster.
8. Get a massage
Massage can be an excellent way to relieve skin irritation and increase circulation. Additionally, it stimulates collagen production for suppleness and smoothness in your skin.
9. Stay Hydrated
It is especially important to drink plenty of water during the winter season. According to the American Diabetes Association, you should aim for at least eight glasses of fluid a day in order to hydrate both your skin and entire body.
10. Wash Your Hands Frequentily
Hands are especially vulnerable to environmental irritants, so the American Academy of Dermatology suggests washing them with a mild, non-irritating soap after they’ve been washed. You could also soak them in warm water or use an effective gentle hand cream afterward for added moisture and protection.
11. Wear Insulated Gloves When Working Outside or in Cold Temperatures
Insulated gloves can prevent dry, itchy skin on your hands when doing housework or working outdoors in extreme temperatures. This is especially useful for those doing yard work or working outside in frigid temperatures.
12. Take shorter, cooler showers
Hot showers or baths can damage your skin and make it dry. Instead, opt for shorter showers that don’t heat up too quickly and use soap that won’t strip away natural oils from your skin.