Dry skin is a serious issue for people, especially when the humidity in the air drops, which is also known as winter. Dry air can cause the skin to visibly show wrinkles and fine lines. It can also cause the skin to become flaky, itchy, and it may even crack and bleed. Using the same skin care routine during the entire year is not helpful, unless the temperature and environment is the same all year long.
Water Can Hurt
When you think your skin should get some moisture, you may think that dousing it with water will help. However, some bath and shower routines may actually be harming the moisture level in your skin. Limit the time you are in the shower and close the bathroom door to retain the steam from your bath or shower. Water should be warm and not hot and you should be using a gentle cleanser in a minimal amount, so as not to over cleanse and remove too much excess oil.
Trap Moisture
Once you spend the time cleaning your skin and removing dirt and oil it is necessary to trap some moisture when you are done. Applying lotion and oil must occur after drying off after your shower or bath or after you wash your face or hands. The moisturizers should be applied right after you have trapped as much water in the skin as possible.
Cream Over Lotion
There are all types of moisturizers on the market, but creams are much more effective and less irritating than lotions. Look for ingredients that have a base of olive oil, jojoba oil or shea butter. Other ingredients that are very helpful are hyaluronic acid, glycerin, lanolin, mineral oil, and also lactic acid.
Don’t Forget the Lips
We often forget that our lips are part of our face and skin. Lip balms are an excellent way to hydrate the skin. Make sure that the lip balm is soothing and has ingredients like vitamin E and soothing ingredients.
Gentle
Use gentle, unscented and natural products to clean with. Many people have sensitive skin that cannot tolerate fragrances, so using fragrance-free cleansers is the best way to keep your skin in check. Deodorant soaps and products with retinoids can dry out skin and cause irritation.
Make Moisture
Another thing you can do is alter the environment in which you live. Plug in a humidifier and give the air a little moisture for your skin and home. This moisture will help combat the natural environmental issues that can be affecting the health of your skin.
See a Dermatologist
With a proper skin care routine and moisture, you should start to notice an improvement in your skin. However, some individuals have very dry skin and it may require prescription ointments for dry skin relief. Our Batesville, Arkansas dermatologist can examine your skin and determine what products may be necessary to help with the healing process. Dr. Hatfield can also provide some tips regarding your skin care routine.