1. Moisturize
There are many kinds of moisturizers available, all of while help your skin retain water. Look for brands that are hypoallergenic. In a pinch, you can also use baby oil or petroleum jelly. The best time to apply them is right after you step out of the bath or shower. Towel off, taking care to pat with the towel rather than rub with it, and apply the moisturizer to your skin while it's still slightly damp. You can further help moisturizing by limiting your shower time, especially if you take hot showers. Shorter, lukewarm showers are usually better for your skin. If redness persists or the dry skin doesn't go away, talk to your doctor about prescription medication.
2. Use Mild Soaps and Detergents
Harsh chemicals in your soap can make dry skin worse, as can excessive dyes and perfumes. Laundry detergent may also leave trace amounts of similar chemicals on your clothes. Use products with a "mild" or "gentle" formula that don't have a lot of bleaches or perfumes. Stay away from soaps that have a high amount of lye in them, and look for soaps with more fat content. They're much gentler on your skin.
3. Soak in an Oatmeal Bath
Powdered colloidal oatmeal is an excellent treatment for dry skin. Draw a lukewarm bath and pour a few cupfuls of the oatmeal under the tap. Make sure the water isn't too hot, or it will dry out your skin further. Soak in the oatmeal bath for about 10 to 15 minutes, then gently pat yourself dry with a towel. Take care when you step out: colloidal oatmeal can be very slippery, especially on the surface of a tub. It can also sting if it gets in your eyes.
4. Avoid Hot or Dry Air
Heat tends to dry out your skin and dry air will suck up moisture almost as quickly. Stay out of the sun if you're suffering from dry skin or apply a moisturizer before going out. When you're inside, use a humidifier to keep the air moist, and drink a lot of water during the hottest parts of the day. When combined, these techniques help keep your skin from itching and drying out.
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