5 Tips to Relieve Dry Skin

Sufferers of dry skin will tell you just how uncomfortable and distressing living with this condition can be. Dry skin can be itchy, flaking and is a sure sign that skin is lacking in some much-needed hydration and moisture. It can become particularly aggravated during the winter months when we turn to winter woollies and turn up the central heating, both of which are instances that can worsen the unpleasantness of dry skin. To combat the effects of dry skin, the following are five helpful tips to help you relieve the symptoms of this condition.

1. Avoid long, hot baths and showers

Dry skin is lacking moisture and one sure-fire way to draw out even more moisture from your skin is to have a long, hot bath or shower as doing so strips the skin of its natural oils making it harder for your skin to retain moisture. If you have dry skin, it is advised that you take short, warm baths and showers that last no longer than 5 or 10 minutes and remember to pat yourself dry instead of any vigorous rubbing.

2. Apply moisturiser just after washing

Once you have patted yourself dry, apply a generous amount of moisturiser to your skin to trap the moisture within. Moisturisers that contain shea butter or glycerine are particularly good. Try to avoid any moisturisers that are overly scented or contain a lot of parabens as these can quickly dry the skin out.

3. Use a humidifier

During the winter months, there is more reliance on central heating as we try to keep ourselves warm. Unfortunately, this is detrimental to dry skin and can aggravate the condition considerably as the heating removes moisture from the air. One way to combat this while still keeping your home warm is to use a humidifier, as this will restore moisture to the air.

4. Drink plenty of water

This may seem like an obvious tip but it is still worth repeating. Drinking water is one of the most effective ways of keeping your body and your skin hydrated. Aim to drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water each day to help your skin to retain the moisture it needs to feel soft and supple. Drinking herbal teas can also help you to hydrate your skin. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as both of these have a drying effect on your skin.

5. Use a bath oil instead of the bubbles

While most of us love a bubble bath, the fragrances and preservatives in bubble bath have a very drying effect on the skin as it strips the skin of its natural oils that are needed to retain moisture. Alternatively, opt for a capful of bath oil, which will leave your skin feeling silky smooth.

There are many other ways in which you can relieve dry skin but following these five tips will give your skin the hydration it needs to stay soft and moist. Whether you want to protect your dry skin from losing more moisture or are trying to restore moisture to your skin, make sure you give your skin and your body the care that they deserve.