Home Remedies For Dry Skin

During the winter months, it is common for some people to experience an increase in dry skin. Dry skin can be uncomfortable and unattractive. It shows up as red,rough and itchy patches on various parts of the body. Common places are the scalp, hands, legs, feet, and abdomen.

Because cold air outside and heated air on the inside lowers the humidity, dry skin is often worse during the winter. Most dry skin is caused by external causes, such as washing with harsh soaps, using harsh cleaning agents, and scrubbing, it will respond well to external skin care treatment. Most of which can be done within your own home.

These dry skin remedies include skipping long and hot showers since hot water will strip oils from the skin quicker than warm water. Try to limit your time in the shower to one 5 to 10 minute warm shower a day. Another dry skin remedy is to use a gentle cleanser and shower gel, preferably one that is soap free and unscented. Keeping the skin moisturized is another key in keeping dry skin under control. Moisturize while your skin is still moist. Use a towel and pat your skin dry, leaving it damp. Make sure to apply the moisturizer within 3 to 5 minutes after showering.

Other dry skin remedies include keeping the air in your home moist. You can do this by plugging in a humidifier. A whole house humidifier will work good for this cause. Oatmeal baths help to soothe dry skin as well. Simply mix baking soda, oatmeal and vanilla extract into a paste and mix into your tub water. Another great remedy for dry skinis to use coconut or avocado oil  on the affected areas. Petroleum jelly, commonly known as Vaseline, is one of the best home remedies for dry skin. You can put some on your feet and wear socks over them at night to help alleviate dry skin. The same can be done on your hands as well.

If you have tried other remedies for dry skin, but are still having problems with it, your soap may to blame for your dry skin. Switch to natural soaps,lotions and cleansers. Wear rubber gloves when cleaning and make sure you wash with a mild soap or lotion afterwards. Avoid using harsh hand sanitizers as the alcohol can further dry out the skin.