1. Humidify Dry Indoor Air
Making sure your skin gets enough moisture will alleviate many of the problems caused by xerosis (dry skin). This will also help prevent the problem from recurring or getting worse. One easy way to do this is to use a humidifier in your home, especially in your bedroom.
2. Modify Bath Time Behavior
Shortening your bathing ritual is a great way to help your skin when it's dry. Bathe less often and use warm water instead of hot. When drying off, gently pat dry with your towel instead of rubbing. Taking baths instead of showers actually helps your skin retain water, which you can then seal in with a moisturizer while your skin is still damp.
3. Investigate Over-the-Counter Help
There are lots of products available without a prescription that may help cure your dry skin. Start with a good, thick moisturizer that is oil-based instead of water-based and use it after every bath or shower. Other products that may also help include petroleum jelly, creams that contain alpha-hydroxy acids (such as lactic acid, glycolic acid or a combination of lactic acid and urea) or, for inflammation and itching, cortisone cream that contains 1 percent or more of hydrocortisone. If any cracks have developed, using a topical antibiotic will help you avoid infections.
4. Cool the Itch
Xerosis can sometimes lead to itchy skin. When this happens, using a cool compress can help alleviate the itch. Keep an ice pack in your freezer ready to use and apply it to the itchy areas as needed.
5. Check in With a Checkup
If your dryness hasn't improved after two weeks of home care, you should see your doctor. Make an appointment earlier, though, if your condition is preventing you from sleeping; if you've experienced symptoms such as suddenly dry or itchy skin or skin that is so dry it's cracked, red, bleeding or infected; or if there's swelling or oozing. You should also see your doctor if, when you develop dry skin, you already have another medical condition (such as diabetes) or if you have recently taken a new prescription.
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