Looking After Dry Skin on the Body

‍Did you know that the skin on your body has different needs to the skin on your face? The body experiences a higher degree of natural moisture from humidity, sweat and sebum production, which means it’s less prone to dryness. However, we all experience dry skin at some point or another. If you have experienced this on your arms or legs, you know how irritating it can be. Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid and treat dry skin on the body so that it doesn’t become an ongoing problem. Here are some expert tips for keeping those problem areas hydrated and happy.

Change up your shower routine

Dry skin can occur as a result of water loss from the skin barrier. If you have very dry skin, you may be washing it too much, which will cause damage to the skin's barrier and make your skin drier. Showering with hot water also causes your skin to lose more water. When it comes to your shower routine, there are certain things you can do to make sure your skin doesn’t become too dry. First and foremost, keep your water temperature on the cooler side, and use lukewarm water. Hot water strips your skin of moisture and can cause irritation and accelerated aging. You should also be careful not to scrub too hard when washing your body. Scrubbing too hard can damage your skin and cause irritation, which will make it drier. When washing, make sure to focus on your problem areas, such as your knees and elbows.

Keep your body moisturized with the right products

When it comes to keeping your body moisturized, there are several products you can use. However, you should choose a body moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type. It’s also important to note that moisturizers are not the same as lotions. For very dry skin, look for a thick, emollient moisturizer that will act as a barrier against water loss. On the other hand, for dry patches on your skin, an ultra-light moisturizer is best. Another thing to consider is choosing the right time to apply your moisturizer. Applying it immediately after getting out of the bath or shower will help seal in the water, preventing water loss.

Try a dry brushing ritual

Dry skin can result from dead skin cell buildup, which blocks pores and can cause acne. Another cause of dry skin is a buildup of sebum, an oily substance found in the skin that acts as a natural moisturizer. While sebum is good for your skin, too much of it can lead to clogged pores, which can cause blackheads, whiteheads and acne. When it comes to preventing dry skin on your body, dry brushing is a great way to gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and stimulating blood flow to the skin. This can help prevent acne and keep your skin healthier. You can do this as part of your daily routine, or you can do it weekly if you don’t have the time to do it daily. It is also possible to use a natural loofah or a skin brush with a loofah attached to exfoliate your skin.

Look for dietary changes

Dry skin can be a sign that your body is lacking in certain nutrients, so it’s important to identify which ones you might be deficient in. Vitamin E, for example, is an antioxidant that is essential for healthy skin. One great source of vitamin E is sunflower seeds, so consider adding them to your diet for some daily dry skin help. Zinc is another nutrient that is essential for healthy skin. You can find this nutrient in chicken and fish. Lastly, iron deficiency can cause dry and itchy skin, so be sure to include iron-rich foods, such as dark leafy greens, in your diet. If you are concerned that you may be deficient in certain nutrients, speak with a doctor or dietitian to find out how you can correct it.

And finally, don’t forget the sunscreen!

While moisturizers are a great way to prevent dry skin, it is also important to protect your skin from the sun. This is because the sun can cause premature aging to the skin, as well as damage from the UV rays, which can lead to skin cancer. To protect your skin from UV damage, look for moisturizers with a high SPF. Remember that you should apply sunscreen even when it’s cloudy, as UV rays can penetrate the clouds. There are many different types of moisturizers on the market. It’s important to choose a moisturizer that is best for your skin type. For example, if you have oily skin, look for a moisturizer that is oil-free.

Summary

Dry skin can happen to anyone and at any time, but when it does, it can be a very uncomfortable experience. Luckily, there are a few ways you can prevent and treat dry skin on your body so that you can get back to feeling your best. When it comes to preventing dry skin, remember that less is more. Don’t exfoliate too often and use moisturizers that are oil-free and gentle. Protect your skin from the sun, and don’t forget to drink plenty of water. With these tips, you can keep your body moisturized and healthy.