One of the major influences in soft skin is the amount of moisture in the epidermis. Doctors at the American Academy of Dermatology report that very dry skin can lead to flaky scales and conditions such as eczema or dermatitis. Medication that contains corticosteroids often is needed to treat dermatitis. Keratosis pilaris is another condition that affects nearly 40 percent of the population and makes skin feel like sandpaper. The bumpy texture is common on the thighs and upper arms and is the result of pores that are plugged up with dry skin. A doctor must treat some skin conditions, but there are steps you can take to prevent outbreaks and keep skin soft.
Step 1
Shave while face and leg skin is wet to keep skin soft. Use shaving creams or gels that contain moisturizer to prevent irritating the skin and drying it out. American Academy of Dermatology doctors advise keeping moisturizing gel on the area for about three minutes to let it absorb, and then shave in the direction that the hair is growing.
Step 2
Use mild and fragrance-free soaps and cleaners. Chemicals used to add fragrance to soap could dry the skin out. Allergic reactions also can interfere with soft skin. Products that contain alcohol strip the skin of natural oils.
Step 3
Apply moisturizer to the skin when it is still damp, preferably after a shower or bath. Pat skin dry to avoid rubbing off the oily top layer of the skin. Put on moisturizers within three minutes of bathing.
Step 4
Look for moisturizers that contain lactic acid or urea, ingredients that help retain moisture in the skin. Moisturizers with lactic acid and urea are available over-the-counter and in many prescription creams. Reapply moisturizers every four to six hours to maintain a soft, supple feel.
Step 5
Keep skin soft by moisturizing from within as well. Drink at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water each day and add canola oil and flaxseed to your diet. Eat vitamin E-rich foods, the vitamin that keep skin soft and supple. Vitamin E is most commonly found in leafy green vegetables and wheat germ.
Step 6
Run a humidifier if the air in your home is dry. Humidifiers are especially helpful in the winter when heat dries out the air and the skin.
Tips and Warnings
- Wear sunscreen when you go out in the sun. Doctors at the National Skin Care Institute report that sun exposure damages the top two layers of the skin and gives it a bumpy, pebbly appearance and feel.
- Avoid hot water that dries skin out. Skin will stay softer if washed in warm water.
Things You'll Need
- Shaving gel
- Fragrance-free soap
- Moisturizer with lactic acid or urea
- Food with vitamin E
- Humidifier
Member Comments