Lifestyle and environmental factors can cause your skin to dry out and lead to flaking and itching. Skin becomes dehydrated when it loses its ability to hold onto water. This can result from harsh winter weather, exposure to wind, excessive bathing, age or a combination of these factors. Many skin products have been designed to help combat dehydrated skin. They contain ingredients to soothe your skin and help lock in moisture.
Causes
When your skin's outer layer loses water, it becomes dehydrated. Your skin naturally becomes drier as you get older, and this can be exacerbated by other factors. Washing for too long or too frequently, especially with hot water, can strip your skin's natural oils and cause it to dry out. Additionally, cold winter weather can chap skin, and spending too much time in a centrally heated room can sap your skin of even more moisture.
Cleansers
Bathe once a day with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser, says AgingSkinNet. The website recommends avoiding cleansers that contain deodorants, fragrances, soaps or alcohol, all of which can rob your skin of its oils. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser that contains moisturizing ingredients. Look for creamy, fragrance-free products with glycerin, a humectant, to help seal moisture in your skin, and select a hypoallergenic product if your skin is sensitive.
Moisturizers
Moisturize after you bathe and throughout the day as needed to keep your skin hydrated. AgingSkinNet suggests looking for a moisturizer that contains lactic acid or urea, which will soothe severely dried-out skin by pulling water from the air and sealing it into your skin. Use a product that promises to soften and repair, and that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy film or residue. Apply a richer lotion at night to help nourish your skin while you sleep, and a combination moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning to protect your skin from sun damage during the day.
Ointments
For scaly, flaky patches or areas of extremely dehydrated skin, you can apply an ointment. DermNet NZ states that these often contain petroleum jelly or similar oil-based ingredients to provide relief to chapped skin, but most people find them too thick and greasy to apply all over their bodies. You can purchase an over-the-counter ointment, or ask your doctor about prescription options if you are concerned about the severity of your dry skin. Apply these as needed, or as directed by a physician.
Considerations
Skin that is persistently dry and flaky may be the result of an underlying condition like eczema. Seek the opinion of a dermatologist if you do not find relief for your dry skin after two weeks of home treatment.
