Dry Skin? Try these proven tips to Soothe Your Skin

What is dry skin?

Dry skin or xerosis refers to flaking or scaling of dry skin without any signs of inflammation.

Reasons behind Dry skin

Dry skin can arise due to a variety of reasons due to lipid loss from the skin due use of

• Harsh soaps

• Rough/Itchy clothing

• Prolonged bath/showers

Any changes in the environment like exposure to hot/cold weather with low levels of humidity.

Showers/Baths Tips to prevent aggravating your dry skin?

• Do not bath/shower for more than 5-10 min. Hot water for a prolonged duration will rob your skin’s natural oils.

• Opt for soaps that are mild and have added oils and fats.

• Antibacterial/deodorant soaps must be avoided, including those containing alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), alcohol, retinoids or fragrances.

• Use enough cleanser to remove the dirt/oil from your skin than a thick lather.

• Refrain from using bath sponges, scrub or washcloths. In case, you have to, make sure to use them very lightly.

• Gently pat or blot or your skin with a towel in 20 secs. Never rub the skin during towelling dry.

• Apply a moisturising cream or oil, after you dry your skin. Moisturisers help in preserving your skin’s natural lipids and check dehydration by entrapping and sealing water in the skin’s outer layer.

• Choose moisturisers, that contain ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, sorbitol and lecithin. These are humectants, help in attracting moisture.

Other helpful tips

• Go for natural fibres like cotton, silk innerwear. Fabrics of any other material including wool can irritate even the healthy.

• When you wash your clothing, use detergents labelled as “hypoallergenic,” i.e. less likely to cause an allergic reaction and which do not contain any perfumes or dyes.

• San fabrics that irritate the skin including wool.

  
  

Reach out to your doctor if these tips don’t help you. You can consult our doctors online now as well.