From medical conditions to weather changes that your skin doesn’t particularly care for, flaky dry skin is uncomfortable irritant that won’t let you forget it’s there. Demanding your attention by way of itching and sometimes pain, dry flaky skin leaves noticeable red scaly patches on your skin that not only looks bad, but doesn’t feel all that great either. If you’re looking for some relief from flaky dry skin, there are several things you can do to resolve the problem.
Step 1
Keep a humidifier on in your home to help keep the air from becoming too dry. Move the humidifier into the bedroom while you sleep. This helps to keep the skin from becoming any drier.
Step 2
Bathe once a day and only for about 10 minutes. Hot water can eliminate the natural oils in your skin so be sure to use warm water. Avoid harsh scented soaps and anything with alcohol in it as this can make dry areas worse. Using a small amount of a moisturizing soap may help your skin. Rinse your body off completely before getting out of the shower.
Step 3
Pat damp skin dry with a soft absorbent dry towel. Avoid rubbing as this will irritate the dry flakey areas. Be sure to dry off thoroughly as moisture on your skin left to air dry will draw moisture out of your skin as it evaporates leaving it drier.
Step 4
Apply lotion after you bathe and are completely dry and liberally throughout the day. Use a moisturizing lotion that is oil or grease based and is free of alcohols and fragrances. Use the lotion right before you go to bed as well.
Step 5
Keep your body hydrated by drinking plenty of water. If your body dehydrates it can affect your skin. Avoid caffeine and alcohol which tend to dehydrate the body.
Tips and Warnings
- Use a cold compress on red areas that appear to be mildly inflamed or you can use a cortisone cream per the manufacturers’ instructions to help alleviate it. If these don’t work or the area is more than mildly inflamed, see your doctor immediately.
- If nothing seems to effect or make the flakey dry skin better, talk to your doctor to rule out any potential medical conditions that may be causing it. Also see your doctor immediately if you experience pain, infection, or intense itching.
Things You'll Need
- Humidifier
- Moisturizing soap
- Absorbent soft dry towel
- Moisturizing soap
- Greasy oil based lotion
Member Comments