Top Tips to soothe your dry skin

The scaling or flaking of skin without any sign inflammation is referred as dry skin (xerosis).

Dry skin occurs due to depletion of lipids by use of harsh soap, itchy clothing, hot and long showers /baths. Environmental causes include exposure to cold or hot weather with low humidity levels.

Here the top tips to maintain a healthy and moist skin.

Ways to prevent baths and showers from making your condition worse:

If you have dry skin, ensure to:

• Limit your bath/shower time to 5-10 minutes.
• Use warm water than hot water as prolonged hot water baths will strip more natural oils from the body.
• Select mild soaps with added oils and fats. Do not use antibacterial and deodorant soaps with alcohol, alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), retinoids or fragrance.
• Avoid thick lather formation, instead use enough cleanser to remove the dirt and oil.
• To prevent skin damage, refrain from using bath sponges, washcloths and scrub. If at all you wish to use them, ensure to use them very lightly.
• Gently blot or pat your skin with a towel in 20 seconds. Do not rub the skin while towelling dry.
• Apply moisturising cream or oil, immediately after drying your skin. Carry along a non-grease cream to apply, every time you wash your hands.
  • Moisturisers aid in the preservation of natural skin lipids and check dehydration by trapping and sealing water in the outer skin layer. Moisturisers, protect the sensitive and damaged skin and make it soft and smooth as well.
  • Select moisturisers, which contain ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, sorbitol and lecithin. These help in attracting moisture (humectants).

Use non-irritating clothing and laundry detergent

To prevent the dry skin from getting irritated by clothing and harsh detergents:

• Wear natural fibres like cotton or silk underneath clothing of any other material including wool (it can irritate healthy skin as well).
• For washing your clothing, use hypoallergenic (less likely to cause allergic reactions) detergents which do not contain perfumes or dyes.
• Avoid fabrics that irritate your skin including wool.

Do not scratch or rub the skin

Often moisturisers help in controlling the itch. You can use a cold compress or pack to relieve itchy areas.

Use a humidifier in winter

Dry and hot air indoors can parch the skin. Use humidifiers to replenish the skin.

If these tips do not provide relief or if you suffer from severe or chronic dry skin problems, visit your dermatologist.