Do you have dry skin?
There are many things you can do to make it smooth and soft. Sometimes all you need is to make a few adjustments to his daily care.
There are some dry skin care strategies that you can try while washing in the bath or shower.
Skip long hot showers. Hot showers remove oil from the skin much faster than lukewarm water. Long showers or soaking in the tub can dry out your skin. Limit yourself to a five or ten minute hot shower or bath once a day.
Use a gentle cleanser or shower gel with moisturizer . Instead of harsh cleansers, go for unscented, soap-free or mild cleansing soaps.
Moisturize the skin while it is still wet. Pat your skin lightly with a towel after showering, or wash your face and hands leaving them damp. Apply a moisturizer three to five minutes after washing to lock in moisture.
What to look for in a moisturizer
You don't have to pay a fortune for a good, rich, moisturizer. Just read the label. Ingredients that are useful to moisturize dry skin are the following:
Ceramides. Ceramides retain skin moisture and soothe dry skin. Synthetic ceramides can mimic natural substances in the outer layer of skin and help lock in moisture.
Dimethicone and glycerin. Both substances draw water into the skin and keep it there.
Hyaluronic acid . Like ceramides, hyaluronic acid helps the skin retain moisture.
Lanolin, mineral oil, petroleum jelly. They help the skin retain the water absorbed during bathing.
Make sure you apply sunscreen to all areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun during the day. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher that says "broad spectrum" on the label.
5 tips to relieve dry skin
The following strategies can also help you have soft and smooth skin:
* Plug in a humidifier at home to help keep skin hydrated during the winter months when indoor air is dry.
* Wear cotton or other natural fiber clothing. Wool, synthetic or other fabrics can be rough and irritating.
* Drink plenty of water.
* Consume foods rich in omega-3. Essential fatty acids may help to “fortify” the natural oil that holds the skin together. Foods rich in omega-3s include cold-water fish (salmon, halibut, sardines), flax, and walnuts.
* For redness or inflammation, apply a cool compress or over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to the area for a week. If these do not provide relief, talk to your doctor.
