How to Care for Your Dry Skin
Did you know that your skin is the largest organ in your body? It is important to take steps to protect your skin by wearing sunscreen every day and visiting your dermatologist to make sure that it stays healthy. With all the various skin conditions that exist, perhaps the most common one is dry skin. Dry skin may crack, itch, and have an unsightly appearance that affects your self-confidence. Read on to learn how you can take care of your dry skin to transform it into looking healthy and beautiful.
Smart Bathing
Cleanliness is essential for healthy skin. When you are taking a shower, try using warm water instead of hot water, as hot water can actually strip your skin of its natural oils. Keep your shower to no more than 10 minutes, as the longer you spend in the water, the drier your skin may get. As you bathe, use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that won’t irritate your skin. You don’t need to work up a thick lather to get clean—just use enough to wash away dirt and oils. If you have particularly sensitive skin, ask your dermatologist to recommend a cleanser that will help lock in moisture.
Daily Moisturizing
It’s easy for skin to become dry, especially when it is exposed to air and sunlight. After you bathe, apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp to better trap moisture in your skin. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer on your face, and consider switching to ointments or creams instead of lotion for the most stubborn areas of dry skin. Apply moisturizer after every time you wash your hands and face to keep them smooth and supple.
Care in Clothing
Itchy, rough clothes are more than just annoying. Rough fabrics can irritate your skin and make dry skin worse. If you are experiencing dry skin, wear cotton or silk next to your skin instead of harsher fabrics like wool. Choose hypoallergenic laundry detergents to ensure that you aren’t causing further irritation to your dry skin.
Dry skin is a common condition, and the friendly dermatologists at Swinyer – Woseth Dermatology in Salt Lake City are here to help you fight it. Call us at 801-266-8841 to schedule your consultation, and let us help you keep your skin smooth, beautiful, and healthy.