Help for Dry Skin
GO FISH. Fish is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which help replenish moisture in dry skin and hair. To get enough amount of Omega-3 fatty acids, try to eat fish at least twice a week.
LOOK FOR AHAs. AHAs or alpha hydroxyl fruit acids are derived from milk, fruit, and sugarcane. Moisturizers with AHAs effectively trap moisture in the skin, and relieves dry, patchy skin.
THE MILDER, THE BETTER. When bathing, treat dry skin as you would sensitive skin. Avoid antibacterial soaps, as they contain harsh chemicals and substances which rob skin of its natural moisture. Use mild soap with lukewarm water instead.
INVEST IN A HUMIDIFIER. The cold and dry months often leave their marks, making your skin dry and in need of moisture. To reduce the harsh effects of these seasons, invest in a humidifier. Although it may not restore your skin to its glorious, healthy condition, it provides you with an important first line of defense against dry, scaly skin.
DON’T SCRATCH. Some people with dry skin may tell you that dry areas sometimes itch. When this happens, avoid scratching your skin as this may bleed. Furthermore, scratching can get the itchy patch infected.
LOTIONS OR PETROLEUM JELLY? When it comes to moisturizers, the thicker, the better. You don’t actually need expensive scented lotions. The least expensive but effective is petroleum jelly. And finally, the most important role in using moisturizers. Use it regularly and reapply when necessary.
CHOOSE LOOSE. When choosing your clothes, try wearing loose garments. Loose clothing doesn’t trap perspiration and allows sweat to be absorbed naturally. On the other hand, once sweat is trapped, it softens the skin and breaks down the skin’s protective layer. This, in turn, dries up the skin.
SHORT PATS ARE ENOUGH. After a bath, a couple of pats is enough to dry you up. The idea is to leave enough traces of water in the skin for the moisturizer to work with.
REMEMBER: YOU’RE NOT A FISH. Your skin isn’t made like that of a fish. The more time you spend in the water or under the shower, the drier your skin will be. A quick shower is enough to rinse off dirt your skin accumulated during the day.
