Everybody needs relief from dry skin according to skin type, either daily or following extreme environmental exposure. People with sensitive skin may have to apply a moisturizing cream once or twice a day; those who periodically encounter sun, wind, dirt and dust may need to use a face and hand lotion afterward. The skin on different parts of your body has specific nourishment requirements.
Face
Your face is a sensitive area, with a typically thinner epidermis and more blood vessels near the surface than other parts of the body. A hand lotion for the face must be viscous enough to stay in place over a wide exposed surface area. For everyday skin care, a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizing cream gently protects you from the elements while locking in moisture. To repair very dry facial skin following sunburn or windburn, try a skin-hydrating cream mask.
Hands
Dry skin affects your hands, cuticles and fingernails, each of which have different nutrient needs. Choose a daily hand lotion for use after washing or working with your hands, such as in the garden or shop. Silk protein, milk proteins and vitamin E enrich cuticles and nails. Panthenol (provitamin B), vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin D feed your skin cells. Your hands are less likely than your face to react to fragrance, so choose a hand lotion that smells good and reapply it often.
Feet
Feet need skin care similar to the hands, with attention to the effects of weight-bearing and hard-surface contact. Friction with shoes and the ground may form calluses and other skin blemishes that need extra softening power. A good moisturizing cream for the feet will be very thick and rich in emollients and vitamins. Look for ingredients such as aloe vera gel, alpha hydroxy acids, essential oils to smooth away dead skin and saturate dry areas with moisture. Marine extracts are good hydrating sources of vitamins and minerals.
Scalp
Using a daily conditioner not only keeps hair healthy but also keeps the skin on your scalp elastic and dandruff free. Any moisturizing conditioner with the above ingredients will penetrate and moisturize the hair cuticle and surrounding skin. Another daily skin care application to try is a few drops of jojoba oil massaged onto your damp scalp.
Body
Richer moisturizing cream that might clog delicate pores on the face is better used on the body for dry skin relief. In addition to aloe vera, look for shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, vitamin E (tocopherol) and other vitamin and protein ingredients.
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