Dry skin, often referred to as xerosis, is typically a temporary issue caused by various factors like extreme weather, low humidity, hot showers, and harsh soaps. If you're experiencing dry skin because of these elements, there are simple home remedies that can significantly help. Symptoms such as skin tightness after a shower, rough patches, itching, peeling, or even cracking are all indicators of dryness. If ignored, dry skin can lead to cracks and even infections, which can be exacerbated in elderly individuals who are more susceptible to skin damage due to thinning skin and diminished moisture retention capabilities [1].
During winter, keeping skin healthy becomes quite a challenge. Aging also contributes to dry skin, bringing fine lines into play. However, you don't have to just accept rough and flaky skin as a part of life. There are plenty of ways to manage this condition. Keeping the outer layer of your skin hydrated and locking in moisture is key to combating dryness. Here are some straightforward skincare tips that can help prevent and treat dry skin.
1) Adjust the Shower Temperature
Avoid those hot showers! Many of us love a steaming hot shower, but it can really damage your skin. Hot water breaks down the skin's natural fat barriers, which decreases moisture levels. So, a simple fix is to switch up your shower routine. Opt for shorter showers in warm — not hot — water to preserve your skin's natural barrier function.
2) Moisturize Regularly
Moisturizers are your best friends when it comes to keeping moisture in. They form a seal over your skin, preventing water loss. Be sure to apply moisturizer right after you shower and a few more times throughout the day. The thicker the moisturizer, the better it can protect your skin. If your skin is particularly dry, using oil on damp skin can be a game changer. Oils tend to last longer and help keep water from evaporating. Interestingly, studies have shown that urea, a prevalent natural moisturizing factor, is considered the gold standard for xerosis treatment, especially when combined with other moisturizing agents [2].
3) Try Oatmeal Baths
Oatmeal is a fantastic natural remedy for dry and irritated skin. Interestingly, a study found that oatmeal extracts possess antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe your skin and alleviate itching caused by dryness [5]. To enjoy an oatmeal bath, grind oatmeal into a fine powder and mix it with warm water. Soak in this mixture for about 20 minutes, and don't forget to moisturize afterward!
4) Protect Your Hands
Your hands often take the brunt of exposure to chemicals and irritants like harsh soaps and detergents. Get into the habit of wearing gloves when washing dishes or handling any chemicals. And if it's chilly outside, insulated gloves are a must. Additionally, opting for clothing made from natural fibers such as cotton and silk allows your skin to breathe, while wool can sometimes irritate sensitive skin.
5) Use a Humidifier
Dry air indoors can worsen itching and flaking. A humidifier can help counteract the dryness caused by heating systems in your home. Setting your humidifier to about 60% can sufficiently maintain humidity levels and help keep your skin hydrated. Just remember to keep it clean, as dirty humidifiers can lead to skin irritation and infections.
6) Choose Gentle Soaps
Harsh soaps with chemical additives can strip your skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness and irritation. Instead, go for cleansing creams or shower gels with added moisturizers. Mild soaps containing oils and fats are also good options, as they help maintain skin hydration. It's advisable to avoid heavily scented soaps and antibacterial detergents, which can further irritate sensitive skin [4].
If you notice redness, if itching disrupts your sleep, or if you develop sores from scratching, it's a good idea to consult a dermatologist online for professional advice. For anyone grappling with dry skin issues, connecting with an online doctor can be a great step. Whether you want to talk to a doctor online or explore options with an AI doctor, you can easily access tailored advice through an online doctor consultation. Don't hesitate to reach out and get the support you need!
References:
- Francesco Lacarrubba, Anna Elisa Verzì, Franco Dinotta, Giuseppe Micali. 10% urea cream in senile xerosis: Clinical and instrumental evaluation.. PubMed. 2021.
- Silke Altgilbers, Frank Rippke, Alexander Filbry, Stefanie Conzelmann, Jens-Peter Vietzke, Thorsten Burkhardt, Dörte Segger, Dennis Roggenkamp, Elke Grönniger. A Biomimetic Combination of Actives Enhances Skin Hydration and Barrier Function via Modulation of Gene Expression: Results of Two Double-Blind, Vehicle-Controlled Clinical Studies.. PubMed. 2022.
- Yukie Yoshida, Akio Hirama, Kazumasa Hashimoto, Takeshi Sato, Noritsugu Yokota, Hidehisa Saeki, Momoyo Kishida, Hiroshi Nakamura, Akira Kanakubo, Shuichi Tsuruoka. Efficacy of a moisturizer for pruritus accompanied by xerosis in patients undergoing dialysis: A multicenter, open-label, randomized verification study.. PubMed. 2021.
- Athanasia Tourlaki, Giovanni Genovese, Dario Consonni, Lucia Brambilla. Efficacy of a detergent combined with a moisturizer for the treatment of pruritus associated with xerosis in an elderly population affected by Kaposi's sarcoma.. PubMed. 2020.
- Mette Deleuran, Victor Georgescu, Catherine Jean-Decoster. An Emollient Containing Aquaphilus dolomiae Extract is Effective in the Management of Xerosis and Pruritus: An International, Real-World Study.. PubMed. 2020.