Your skin type depends on several factors; from the climate of the place where you stay to your genetics. Individuals who have the dry skin type suffer from constant itchiness, flakiness, and dryness. A feeling of being uncomfortable is almost permanent. Apart from these, the redness in the face that shows up in the form of patches is also a common sign of the skin being dry.

Dry skin affects not just the face but also the lower legs, abdomen, ankles, and arms.

Cleanse gently:

The best way to cleanse your skin is by opting for a soapless cleanser. Go for gentle soaps that don’t have fragrance in them. That is why deodorants and other antibacterial additives can be very harsh on the skin. Look for ceramides in the cleanser’s ingredients that are incredibly effective for skincare for dry skin. Ceramides are fatty molecules that work on the outer barrier of the skin and help the skin to trap moisture and keeps it hydrated. Avoid skin drying agents such as peels, toners, astringents and other alcohol-containing products. While exfoliating, make sure that you don’t scrub hard or too much; it is bound to irritate the skin further.

Smart shaving:

Shaving your unwanted body hair can irritate the skin and rid your skin of its natural oils. The best time to shave is after a bath since the hairs are softer after bathing. Make sure that you use an extremely sharp razor, since a dull bladed razor may cause some amount of skin irritation. Changing your razor blades often is essential for the sake of hygiene. You can also keep your existing blade clean by regularly using some rubbing alcohol.

Cover up:

Dry skin, roughness or wrinkles are the results of extreme sun damage on your skin. You can avoid this damage by applying an SPF 30 sunscreen all year round, 2 hours before stepping out. In winter or colder seasons, skincare for dry skin involves wearing layers of clothing but in a way that does not make you perspire too much, since it may cause skin irritation as well. During summer days avoid wearing skin tight clothes, swap it for light, half sleeved, long shirts so that your skin stays covered. Make sure to soothe your eyes by wearing a pair of sunglasses.

Only warm water, not hot:

Hot water is never a good idea for people suffering from dry skin problems. A hot shower results in getting rid of the skin oil barrier and the skin needs this oil barrier for keeping the skin hydrated. Long hot water showers are a strict no. It’s best not to linger in these hot showers for long durations of time. Skincare experts have recommended short, warm showers, no longer than 5 to 10 minutes.

Tips to remember for effective skin care for dry skin:

• Moisturize while your skin is still moist.
• Start using a humidifier at home during winters.
• Wear clothes made of cotton and other naturally occurring fibers.
• Drink plenty of water.
• In case of itching and scratching, apply a cold compress on your skin as directed by your skin care provider.
• Look for the following ingredients in your cleansers and face washes: Dimethicone, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, lanolin, mineral oils and petroleum jelly.

Knowing these tips, you are now in a better position to manage your dry skin.