According to the Mayo Clinic, dry skin isn't serious but can be itchy, flaky and uncomfortable. In most cases, according to the Family Doctor website, dry skin is due to environmental factors such as dry weather. Bathing with dry skin can be problematic, because soaps and hot water can rob moisture from the skin. Greta Breedlove, author of "The Herbal Home Spa," recommends bathing in a warm oatmeal bath to prevent robbing moisture from the skin. Oatmeal also relieves itching and flaking.
Making the Oatmeal Soak
Step 1
Add the cup of oats into the food processor, or blender. Grind the oats on high until they form a fine powder.
Step 2
Pour the oats into the air-tight plastic container. Add the ½ cup of dry milk, put the top on the container and shake to mix the ingredients together.
Step 3
Add the ¼ cup lavender buds, cover the container and shake.
Step 4
Add the 10 drop of lavender oil. Distribute the drops evenly in a circle. Cover the container and shake to mix the ingredients.
Taking the Bath
Step 1
Fill a sink with warm water and wash your underarms and genital area.
Step 2
Run a warm bath. The bath should be hotter than body temperature but not scalding.
Step 3
Add ¼ cup of the oat mixture to the warm bath water. Swirl the water to dissolve the powder.
Step 4
Soak in the warm bath for up to 15 minutes. Use the sponge to wet your arms, chest or any other parts that aren't submerged.
Step 5
Blot yourself dry---do not rub. Apply a lotion or moisturizer.
Tips and Warnings
- If you don't have time for a bath, take a shower with an oatmeal pouf. Put a ½ cup of whole oats in the foot of an old nylon stocking. Cut and tie off the end and use the oatmeal stocking to wash your arms, legs and torso. Discard after your shower.
Things You'll Need
- 1 cup whole oats
- Food processor or blender
- Air-tight plastic container
- ½ cup dry milk
- ¼ cup dried lavender buds
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- Mild body soap
- Sponge
- Towel
- Bath tub
- Lotion or moisturizer
References
- Family Doctor: Dry, Itchy Skin
- Mayo Clinic: Dry Skin
- "Herbal Home Spa"; Greta Breedlove
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