Anti Aging Skin Care » How to Deal with Dry Skin

How to Deal with Dry Skin

Dry skin can be very sensitive as it is low on sebum levels. Especially, when the weather is cold and the oil glands do not supply enough lubrication to the skin. As a result, in winter, the skin takes on a dry look and feel, as it is not able to absorb and retain moisture. After taking a wash, the skin feels uncomfortably tight and seems to pull in all directions. Therefore, it is advisable to apply some moisturizer immediately after a shower. Chapping and cracking up of the skin is also experienced and this means that the skin is extremely dehydrated. The condition worsens when you go out in windy and extreme temperatures. The skin becomes flaky and dull and lines and spots become more visible around the eyes and mouth. It is good to know how to deal with the problem of dry skin in cold conditions as well as under normal circumstances.

Food deficiencies can also make things worse. Skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and seborrhea can also affect the person.

Medical reasons can also contribute to dry skin. These are commonly an under active thyroid, skin complications because of diabetes and drug-induced dry skin,drugs like diuretics, antispasmodics and antihistamines are known to affect the skin. Genes can also be responsible for dry skin.

Steps to take care of dry skin

• Avoid using very hot or very cold water when cleansing dry skin.
• Try not to use tap water as it may have deposits that can harm the skin. At least for the face use a splash of mineral water.
• Do not use a cloth or jute scrub on the face. The rough texture will harm the skin. Mist your face by spraying your face with mineral water. Never rub the facial skin. Simply pat it dry.
• Cleansing with soap removes more than just dirt; all the natural oils that protect the skin are removed leaving the skin dull and listless. Use a moisturizer immediately to counteract this. It will increase the water content in the outer layers of the skin and give it a soft dewy look. One could use cleansing creams for the face instead of harsh soaps. Instead, once a week use a mild oatmeal soap, which will gently exfoliate your skin without causing irritation.
• Use of baby oil after a bath is known to have beneficial effects.
•  If your skin is dry and irritates easily, try to cut back on the amount of time you bathe or shower - some dermatologists even suggest spending no more than three minutes a day in water.
• Apply nourishing cream and massage at night paying attention to the eye area.
• Make a beauty mask in the following manner and apply on your skin at least once a week. Mix 1 egg, 1-tablespoon honey, ˝-tablespoon olive oil and a few drops of rose water and apply it on your skin before you go for your bath.
• Lie down, totally relaxed in a tub of warm water to which 250 gms of milk powder has  been added along with a few drops of rose water and a spritz of your favorite perfume. Come out in half an hour all refreshed with sweet smelling and see for yourself the magical results on your dry skin.
• For cracked, sore lips, massage them at bedtime with milk cream to which a few drops of rose water and limejuice has been added. A bit of Vaseline rubbed on the lips after applying lipstick will keep them from drying.
• During winter, avoid going out in the wind without applying a strong moisturizer. Due to wind, extensive damage to your fragile facial skin can be caused.
• Aloe vera gel has a beneficial effect on dry chapped fingers. Apply generously at bedtime and wear gloves.
• Avoid going out in the harsh sun without a sunscreen protection, as it will cause burning, dryness, wrinkles and rashes.
• In cold and freezing weather months, consider investing in a humidifier and placing it in your bedroom or other apartment area where you spend a significant amount of time. The extra moisture in the air will help your skin condition improve almost immediately.