Friday, September 7, 2012

What You Should Know About Dry Skin Care

Dry skin is characterized by a parched look and can produce rough and itchy red patches all over the body. It tends to be tightly drawn over the bones and can look dull around the cheeks or the eyes. It is also likely to show in the arms, legs, hands, ankles, and on the abdomen. During its worse moments, dry skin can lead to cracks and fissures, especially chapping on the lips. For some people, dry skin is hereditary, so it is a bit difficult to control. On most occasions though, it is caused by external causes so it is easy to remedy through dry skin care and treatment.
Other than genetic condition, the its causes include poor diet-especially deficiencies in Vitamins A and B, exposure to the sun, cold weather, cosmetics or usage of harsh soaps. The good thing about caring for dry skin is that it only requires simple adjustments to your daily regimen so your skin becomes soft and smooth.
First, you should avoid using tap water to cleanse dry skin. Tap water contains mineral deposits which are too harsh especially on the face, so mineral water is a better option. You should also avoid hot water, as well as using a washcloth since rough textures have bad effects on it. You will also constantly need to do gentle but thorough cleansing, with regular massages of oil and moisture. Don't stop at washing your skin with plain water and soap. Soap tends to clear out grime and grease, but it can also get rid of natural oils which are necessary for skin health. Proper skin care should always involve using a good moisturizer to increase water content of the skin's outer layers.
Limit your showers to only 5-10 minutes a day, and use warm water. Long, drawn out showers with hot water is detrimental to it. The only baths you can spend a lot of time on are milk baths. Next, make sure to always use neutral pH products, preferably unscented and soap-free. Be gentle when you touch your face and after washing, finish it off by applying a thin layer of moisturizing cream. You can also mildly apply baby oil after taking a bath or shower. Pat your skin gently with a soft towel after washing.
Other than cleansing, there are also other strategies for dry skin care. You should drink plenty of water. Moisturizing isn't just done on the outside. Next, wear cotton and similar all-natural fabrics. Material made from synthetics or wool can be irritating to it and will sometimes be itchy. You should also eat foods rich in omega-3. Their essential fatty acids will strengthen the skin's oil-retaining barriers. Examples of these foods are salmon, sardines, and walnuts.
Lastly, you should stay out of overheated rooms and avoid sudden temperature changes in general. Dry skin care also requires that you should not smoke. Smoking can constrict blood vessels and affect capillaries connected to the skin. This deprives the skin of the oxygen and nutrients it needs. Most of all, never forget to get enough sleep each night. Beauty rest is always essential for everyone, and this includes those with dry skin.

No comments:

Post a Comment