Dry skin is one of the most common skin conditions, affecting 50 to 70% of the population. It can occur in any climate, but it is particularly common in winter with low humidity levels and cold temperatures.
While some people experience dry skin due to environmental factors, other causes include inadequate diet, aging, hormonal changes (including menopause), medication side effects, and certain medical conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Regardless of the cause, dry skin is typically itchy and uncomfortable, leading to reduced quality of life for those affected by it.
Here are the things you can do to help relieve your symptoms:
Drink plenty of fluids
Drinking water can help combat dry skin because it promotes circulation, which helps moisten your skin. It also helps to keep your skin elastic. If you have oily skin, drink lots of water to better balance the oil production in your skin. Don’t forget that other liquids like juice, milk, coffee, or tea can also be helpful for hydration.
Many people will try to hydrate by drinking soda or other high-sugar beverages, but these are often not the best option due to the increased risk of tooth decay. Fruit juices are a better alternative as long as they are made from whole fruits and not processed fruit juices that use unnatural additives.
Avoid harsh soaps and detergents
Harsh soaps and detergents can cause dry skin by stripping away the natural oils from your skin. This can leave your skin feeling dry, itchy, and uncomfortable. To avoid this, try to use gentle, non-irritating soaps and detergents. Look for products specifically designed for dry skin. You can also make your own soap using natural ingredients like olive oil or coconut oil.
Use a humidifier
A humidifier can help add moisture back into the air, which will help to moisten your skin. If you live in a drier climate or spend a lot of time in heated indoor spaces, using a humidifier can be helpful.
When looking for a humidifier, it is important to consider the most important features. Some of the factors you may want to consider include:
- The size of the humidifier
- How quiet the humidifier is
- The type of humidifier (cool mist or warm mist)
- The ease of use
- The cleaning requirements
- The price
You may also want to consider getting a humidifier with a built-in hygrometer that will allow you to track the humidity levels in your environment.
Apply moisturizers liberally
One of the best ways to combat dry skin is by applying moisturizers liberally. Look for products specifically designed for dry skin, and make sure to apply them after bathing and before bed. If your skin feels dry, try using a moisturizer that contains an occlusive agent like petroleum jelly, which will help seal in the moisture.
If you have allergies, be sure to avoid moisturizers that contain fragrances or other harsh chemicals. You can also try using natural oils like olive oil or coconut oil as a moisturizer.
Take care of your skin in the sun
Sunlight can have adverse effects on your skin. As the ultraviolet rays from the sun penetrate the top layer of your skin, they damage proteins in the layers below. This can lead to dry skin, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation or uneven tone, and an increase in acne.
The sun can be drying for your skin, so it is important to take care when you are out in the sun. Make sure to apply sunscreen liberally and reapply often. You may also want to consider wearing a hat and avoiding being out in the sun during peak hours.
Aesthetic treatments
You may also want to consider seeking aesthetic treatments. There are a few different treatments that you may want to consider. Laser therapy and IPL treatment are two of the most popular treatments for dry skin. These treatments work by penetrating the skin and heating it, which helps increase the hydration levels in your skin. This leads to relief from your dry skin symptoms.
Another popular treatment for dry skin is microneedling. Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that involves using tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin. This helps promote collagen production and improve the hydration levels in your skin.
If you are experiencing dry skin, consider booking a consultation at an aesthetic clinic to discuss the best treatment for you.
Eat a healthy diet
A healthy diet for dry skin would include eating foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats are used to produce skin lipids and help improve dry skin conditions.
Phytochemicals like lycopene, beta-carotene, and astaxanthin can also be beneficial because they decrease inflammation and soothe irritated skin. Some good sources of these nutrients include tomatoes, carrots, sweet potatoes, and dark leafy greens. Avoiding processed foods and eating a balanced diet is the best way to ensure that you get all the nutrients your skin needs.
Dry skin can be a real annoyance during the winter months when the weather is cold and dry. But with a few simple tips, you can manage dry skin and keep it from causing too much discomfort. If the dryness persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like itching or redness, be sure to see a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
