Skin can dry out for a number of reasons, from genetics to too much time in the sun without sunblock. Exposure to wind, not drinking enough water and using certain soaps also can dry skin. Red skin may be a symptom of rosacea and, in that case, the less you do to your skin the better. These conditions can benefit from simple, natural treatments.
Dry Skin Prevention
Proper treatment of your skin can help keep it from drying out in the first place. The use of too many soaps, bubble baths and shower gels can make skin dry. The American Dermatology Association (ADA) says a beauty-bar type soap may be less drying and irritating than deodorant soaps. The National Skin Care Institute recommends a gentle cleanser such as Cetaphil. After cleansing, apply a moisturizer to help keep skin from drying out. The ADA says moisturizers work by putting an oily layer over the skin to keep water in or attracting water from the inner skin to the outer layer. To stop moisture loss, consider products with petrolatum, mineral oil and lanolin. Products containing glycerin may help draw moisture to the skin. Of course, heed all the warnings about sun exposure. It’s critical to use sunblock while outdoors.
Dry Skin Exfoliation
Exfoliation can help you shed dry skin and improve the work of moisturizers. The National Skin Care Institute recommends you start by using a washcloth to get rid of dead skin. As your face gets used to the routine, work up to something coarser, such as a loofa. You can also make a skin rub at home to help dry skin disappear. Natural exfoliants are made by combining coarse and moist ingredients and mixing them into a paste that’s used to scrub the skin. The Natural Living for Women website recommends coarse ingredients such as oatmeal, coffee grounds or sugar, and moist ingredients like honey, yogurt or olive oil.
Rosacea Treatment
The American Academy of Dermatology says people with rosacea have a fragile stratum corneum, the layer of skin you can see in the mirror. Because this layer is more delicate, it doesn’t take much to irritate it. Gentle skin treatment is the key. The AAD warns against scrubbing or rubbing the skin. Even a bath puff or washcloth may cause irritation. Skin should be washed with warm water and a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. To dry, softly pat the skin with a cotton towel and let skin dry thoroughly. Wait five or ten minutes before applying anything to the skin to reduce irritation. The ADA recommends using a barrier-repair emollient, rather than a regular moisturizer. Use sunscreen, and avoid waterproof makeup and heavy foundations.
