There’s no denying many of us experience mild forms of dry skin ever so often, especially in the winter months. And it’s no surprise that a lack of moisture in the air would contribute to flaky, sometimes irritated skin. If you’re looking for proven solutions, we’ve got you covered. Skin Care Institute’s medical director, Dr. Jeff Alexander, is a board-certified dermatologist, equipped to treat severe cases of dry skin. For milder cases, the following dermatology tips can help you relieve and prevent dry skin so you can maintain a smooth, radiant look all year round:
#1: Moisturize daily.
Moisturizers trap existing moisture in your skin, making them the go-to solution for dry skin. It’s important to moisturize within a few minutes of drying off after bathing and washing your hands or face. Washing can strip your skin of its natural protective oils, vital for maintaining moisture. When choosing the right moisturizer, oftentimes the heavier the better. Opt for an ointment or cream (rather than a lotion) for more effectiveness and less irritation. Search for a product that contains one or more of the following ingredients: jojoba oil, dimethicone, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, lanolin, mineral oil, petrolatum or shea butter. As a helpful reminder to moisturize, keep a bottle handy by your sink, or for on-the-go, a travel-size bottle in your car or purse will do.
#2: Avoid hot water.
Though relaxing, a long, hot bath or shower can actually worsen dry skin by removing natural oils. Try as best as you can to limit your shower time to five to 10 minutes and use warm water instead of hot. Slather on moisturizer while your skin is still moist and be sure to gently pat yourself dry with a soft towel to avoid any irritation.
#3: Use a humidifier.
A proven way to put moisture back in the air is to invest in a humidifier. Consider installing a humidifier in the main rooms of your home — bedroom, living room, office space, etc. — to prevent and relieve skin dryness.
#4: Choose nonirritating fabrics and detergents.
When our skin is dry, certain fabrics and laundry detergents can cause irritation. To help prevent this, wear cotton or silk under your clothing made of wool or any fabric that feels rough on your skin. Loose, comfortable clothing is key, but if you’re still experiencing irritation from your clothes, try switching to a hypoallergenic laundry detergent free of harsh chemicals and fragrances.
#5: Rethink your skin care.
How you treat your skin has a lot to do with what skin care products you use. If you’re experiencing dry skin, use only gentle, fragrance-free skin care products in your daily routine. If you are suffering from chronic dryness, you may need to take a break from products that contain any of the following drying ingredients: alcohol (except for hand sanitizer), alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), fragrance (including deodorant soaps) and retinoids. Avoiding these products will help your skin retain its natural protective oils. Not sure where to look for the right products? Look no further than Skin Care Institute for clinically proven skin care lines, including SkinMedica®, Revision® Skincare and EltaMD®. Shop our store today to view all the amazing products we offer.
We’ve been providing quality care and results for over 19 years, and we can’t wait to help you with all your skin care needs. To learn more about proper skin care or treating dry skin, call us today at (918) 948-9639 or fill out our consultation request form.
