Dry skin, or xerosis, is a common condition that affects nearly everyone at some point. It is more common during the winter months, but can occur year-round. Most cases of dry skin respond well to daily moisturizing and minor lifestyle changes. Severe dry skin, however, may crack or bleed and is vulnerable to bacterial and fungal infections. Untreated dry skin increases the risk of developing cellulitis, eczema and folliculitis, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 1
Avoid taking long, hot baths or showers. According to the University of Iowa, very hot water will pull moisture out of your skin, resulting in increased dryness and itching. Keep baths and showers short and use warm water instead of hot water. Avoid rubbing your skin with a towel after bathing. Instead, gently pat your skin dry.
Step 2
Stay away from harsh soaps, antibacterial detergents and deodorant soaps. These products can remove too much of the skin's natural oils and make dry skin worse. Instead, opt for mild soaps or cleansing pads designed for use on dry skin.
Step 3
Apply moisturizer to your dry skin every morning, immediately after bathing, and again before bed at night. The Mayo Clinic recommends using a thicker moisturizing cream, such as Cetaphil or Eucerin, or applying oil to dry areas after bathing. Oil-based creams are more effective than water-based lotions because they prevent the evaporation of water from the skin.
Step 4
Drink at least 64 oz. of water every day. According to the National Institutes of Health, this will help keep your body and skin hydrated and help dry skin.
Step 5
Run a humidifier in your room at night to relieve dry skin caused by dry air. This is especially important during the summer and winter months, when indoor heating and cooling systems significantly lower the humidity level inside homes.
Step 6
Use sunscreen every time you go outdoors. Exposure to the sun's UV rays is very drying to the skin and can lead to premature aging and skin cancer. Apply sunscreen after showering in the morning, but before putting on any cosmetics.
Step 7
Wear natural fibers, such as silk and cotton, and avoid wool and synthetic blends. Natural fibers allow for better air circulation and are less likely to cause itching.
Step 8
Avoid scratching itchy dry skin, as doing so will only worsen itching and may lead to a potentially serious skin infection. Using over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams or taking antihistamine medications may help relieve itching, but the University of Iowa recommends against using these products unless absolutely necessary, as they may irritate the skin or trigger allergic reactions. The Mayo Clinic recommends applying cool compresses to very itchy areas.
Step 9
Visit your doctor if your dry skin is caused by psoriasis, ichthyosis or another condition. Your doctor can prescribe topical medications to help dryness and relieve associated itching.
Things You'll Need
- Moisturizer
- Humidifier
- Sunscreen, SPF 15 or higher
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