The skin is the largest organ in the body, comprising about 2 square yards at an average of 6 to 9 pounds, report doctors at the National Institutes of Health. Healthy, supple skin is important to protect inner organs, regulate body temperature and sense environmental changes. Taking care of all that skin requires time and a concerted effort to avoid costly repairs and uncomfortable dryness.
Humidity
Keeping moisture in the air at home can be an important step in preventing dry skin, report doctors at the Mayo Clinic. Hot, indoor air is dry and can aggravate sensitive skin, causing additional dryness and discomfort. A humidifier that attaches to the furnace can be operated from a switch to add needed moisture in the air without having other portable machines cluttering different rooms. Portable humidifiers on the other hand are inexpensive and widely available in pharmacies and big-box retailers. Humidifiers must be kept clean to prevent fungus and bacteria from forming on the elements.
Moisturize
Applying moisturizer directly to the skin is vital to maintaining supple skin and preventing dryness. Thick, over-the-counter moisturizers form a protective barrier on the skin and prevent moisture from evaporating. Mayo Clinic doctors recommend thick creams such as Cetaphil and Eucerin to keep moisture locked in the skin. Doctors at the American Academy of Dermatology recommend moisturizing products that contain mineral oil, lanolin or dimethicone to prevent water loss. When skin becomes very dry, you may need to rub in oil, like baby oil or vegetable oil, that will last longer than moisturizers. Pat skin dry and apply oil or lotions immediately after bathing for the best results. Use moisturizers that attract moisture to the skin and contain ingredients such as proteins, vitamins, glycol or propylene.
Soap
Mild soaps with little or no chemicals in them can help to prevent dry skin and irritations that increase dryness. Gentle creams or shower gels that contain added moisturizers are the best option, report Mayo Clinic doctors. Dove, Basis and Neutragena manufacture effective options for mild cleansers. Consider the soap used to wash your clothes as well. Harsh chemicals from laundry detergent or fabric sheets can stick on clothing and dry out or irritate the skin. Doctors at the American Academy of Dermatology recommend using laundry detergent that is fragrance-free and has a neutral pH as well as rinsing clothes twice to remove irritating chemicals.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen protects the skin from getting burned and drying out. Doctors at the American Academy of Dermatology recommend wearing sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB sun rays with a sun protection factor, or SPF, of at least 30. Better yet, stay in the shade or out of the sun between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. to avoid the most dangerous sun exposure.
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