Dry skin? Try these 5 remedies.

• April 5, 2020

Some people are more prone than others to dry skin on the face and body. Harsh chemicals, alcohol, changes in temperature and using soaps are all factors that contribute to lack of sebum- the oil that our body produces to keep our skin hydrated.
But especially now with the extra cleanliness measures that the whole world is taking, we might all be suffering from itchy and flaky skin.

What are some specific causes of dry skin on the face, body and hands?
Dehydrated skin lacks water, making it appears dull or rough.
Some potential external causes of dry or dehydrated skin include: dry or recycled air, exposure to harsh chemicals, excessive washing, unbalanced skin pH due to chemicals.
Other medical causes might include: diabetes, dermatitis, hypothyroidism.
Of course there are two avoidable factors which are smoking and too much sunlight.
Here are 5 remedies for dry skin on the face, body and hands.
1. Moisturize while damp
Whatever your moisturizing routine, do it when you’re fresh from the shower or bath – lotions are designed to lock in moisture and improve the skin’s natural barrier function. So one way to make their job easier is by using them when your skin is at its most moist.
Of course be careful now more than ever, to avoid products with: alcohol, artificial fragrances, dioxane and petroleum.
The best products will contain: hyaluronic acid, ceramids, and also oatmeal. Depending on your skin type, we also like natural remedies that are rich with coconut oil, shea butter and aloe vera.

2. Exfoliate to remove dead skin
When dead skin cells become stuck on the surface, it results in dry patches and clogged pores. That’s why it’s important to exfoliate in order to improve the skin’s overall appearance and texture. By increasing cellular turnover, you help keep your skin soft and supple.
As we often talk about exfoliating, there are two way to do it- mechanical and chemical- and the one you choose will depend on your skin type. A combination of both is the best solution.
Mechanical exfoliation works by physically removing dead cells from the surface of the skin. It’s done by using brushes, washcloths and facial scrubs.
On the other hand, chemical exfoliators are a gentler alternative to mechanical exfoliators in that you are not harshly rubbing the surface of your skin. These Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) penetrate the deeper layers of the skin to remove dead cells from pores.
3. Overnight treatments
People with extremely dry skin may want to try an overnight remedy. To do this, they should use copious amount of moisturizing lotions or creams. Once they have applied lots of cream, a person should put socks, gloves, or mittens over the hands. The coverings help to keep the moisturizer in touch with the skin, so it is absorbed overnight.

4. Better bathing habits
One tip to remember: skip the hot shower.
There might be nothing better to get you relaxed, but your skin disagrees. Super-hot water dries out your skin very badly, on your face and whole body because it strips away the natural oils. Furthermore, spending too much time in water can remove sebum from the skin.
And don’t forget that immediately after showering, you should apply a moisturizer.
Extra tip: A natural remedy we love is using milk. Milk is soothing and is rich in lactic acid which is great for the skin. Using a gentle cloth, dab it gently to your skin wherever you feel that you need extra moisture. It will work as an anti-inflammatory and it will heal any itch.
5. Medication
When you don’t see any improvement, it will be necessary to check in with your dermatologist. When you think your skin is too damaged, there is surely a recommended topical ointment or medicated cream that will help you hydrate.
The type of medication will vary depending on the cause of the dry skin.

What can we do to help with prevention?
There are things we can’t avoid, but we can help ourselves a little bit.
If you have to stay in the sun, wear sunscreen all over your face, body and hands.
Make the extra effort to apply moisturizer.
Limit caffeine which naturally dries out the skin.
Drink plenty of water.

With lots of love, we hope you stay safe and take good care of yourself and your loved ones.
See you soon beauties xo