Skin is the body’s largest organ. It’s made up of three separate layers. KidsHealth explains that the lowest level, called the subcutaneous layer, moves toward the surface during a journey that can take two weeks to a month. As the new cells make their way toward the epidermis--the surface layer of skin--the old cells die and shed. Up to 40,000 dead skin cells flake off every minute. If your skin cells are not shedding quickly enough, your skin can become dry, irritated and itchy. Your risk of infection is increased as well.
Step 1
Shower or bathe only one time every 24 hours. An article published by the University of Iowa’s department of dermatology suggests using warm water rather than hot.
Step 2
Cleanse your skin with a minimal amount of soap. For skin that is severely irritated, use soap only on your feet, under your arms, your genital area and face.
Step 3
Pat yourself dry with a clean towel. Rubbing yourself dry can irritate your skin further.
Step 4
Apply a moisturizer within three minutes of drying yourself. The Mayo Clinic reports that moisturizers work by sealing the water into your skin before it has the chance to evaporate.
Step 5
Moisturize your skin three or four times throughout the day. Areas prone to irritating dry skin are hands, arms and legs. The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests using a moisturizer labeled “hypoallergenic.”
Step 6
Take vitamin E supplements or consume foods high in vitamin E. The University of Michigan Health System reports that vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cells. You can get vitamin E from consuming egg yolks, leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds and wheat germ oils. Tocopheryl is a vitamin E supplement available over the counter at health food stores.
Tips and Warnings
- The dermatology department at the University of Iowa suggests these gentle soaps: Dove, Neutrogena Dry Skin Formula, Aveeno Cleansing Bar for Dry Skin, Purpose, Basis and Oil of Olay. Increasing the humidity level in rooms you spend a lot of time could help keep your skin from becoming irritatingly dry.
- The AAFP warns that dry skin is at increased risk for becoming infected. If your skin turns red, warm or swollen, see your doctor. Water, especially hot water, can worsen dry skin by removing the oils that keep skin hydrated. The American Academy of Dermatology strongly advises against using scented soaps, bubble bath products, and drying bath and shower gels.
Things You'll Need
- Hypoallergenic skin cleanser
- Moisturizer
- Vitamin E
Member Comments