Most dry skin is primarily caused by weather. The sun during the summer, heaters depleting the moisture inside during the winter months and low humidity environments are all terrible for the skin. As you get older, your skin becomes thinner and drier. Other possible causes for dry skin are medical conditions, medications, perfumes, washing your hands frequently and exposure to chemicals. Regardless of how you attained dry skin, a few simple lifestyle changes can help you treat it.
Step 1
Change your clothes. Wear loose clothing that covers your skin’s sensitive areas during the summer months. Wear loose layers during the winter. This will allow your skin to breathe while trapping your body’s natural heat. Avoid wool and other materials that can scratch the skin. Cotton products are best. Wear a hat and gloves when you go out in the cold weather. Make sure the hat covers your ears.
Step 2
Protect your hands. Hands are the most abused part of the human body. If they are submerged in water frequently, wear waterproof gloves. Wash your hands often, but make sure to apply a moisturizing lotion after each washing. The higher the oil base of the lotion, the better. A high oil content, such as ointments, trap in the moisture.
Step 3
Moisturize your sensitive areas as often as necessary. Avoid hot showers and only use warm water. After a shower, or even a hand wash, do not dry your body completely. Let it remain slightly damp by patting the area dry instead of rubbing it. Apply lotion on the damp skin. This will help to trap the water in your skin. Nonperfumed lotions are best, because the chemicals in sweet-smelling products can irritate dry areas. A petroleum product is great for holding in moisture.
Step 4
Take care of your lips. Apply lip balm on a consistent basis. If you find that your lips are drying out even though you apply lip balm several times a day, spread petroleum jelly on them at night. This will help to soften them and remoisturize them as you sleep.
Tips and Warnings
- A humidifier and vaporizer can help retain the humidity in your home. It is a good counter during winter months when the heating system is drying out the inside of your home.
- If you find that these tips do not help you to remedy your dry skin, it may be time to visit a dermatologist.
Things You'll Need
- Moisturizer
- Lip balm
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