Dry skin is something that every person suffers from occasionally. Some people are genetically more prone to dry skin or xerosis, while many others notice every now and then that their skin is not as elastic and supple as usual. This can occur due to various reasons, from inadequate hydration to harsh weather. In any case, it is important to understand many reasons behind dry skin and the available remedies to bring it back to normal.
Causes of dry skin
As it is mentioned above, there are really many possible reasons for the skin to become more dry than usual. For example, not drinking enough water. Dehydration or improper hydration has several significant impacts on the human body, and dry skin is probably the least serious one.
Using cosmetic products containing harsh chemicals or exposing the skin to harmful pollution also strip away moisture from the skin, making it less elastic and soft. In addition, harsh weather, especially if very cold or very hot, as well as windy, has the same effect on the skin.
Exposure to the sun during hot summer days causes significant skin damage and dry skin is just the first sign of it.
Other factors that lead to dry skin include too much time spent in contact with water, various skin disorder and internal illnesses, certain medications, hereditary factors, hormonal and metabolic factors.
How to treat dry skin
Even though certain measures can help with dry skin and make it elastic and soft again, it is still important to understand its causes. That way the problem can be solved in the root.
The skin needs moisture both from the inside and from the outside. It is very important to drink enough water each day, preferably eight to ten tall glasses of it, and to eat foods rich in water, such as melon and cucumbers. In addition, foods rich in vitamins E and A, as well as supplements of those vitamins, are highly beneficial.
As for the outside, the skin needs to be treated each day with a quality moisturizing lotion. It is best to use lotions that are light but yet potent, that can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin without leaving a greasy residue and that are generally neutral, without unnecessary colors, perfumes and preservatives. Lotions should be applied after each shower or bath and also before bedtime.
When spending time in the sun, the skin should be protected with sunscreen. In the winter, all parts of the body should be protected with clothes so the wind and cold air do not dry it up.
It is recommended to limit the time spend in the shower or in the bathtub. The water should be lukewarm or moderately hot, not very hot. Certain essential oils added to the water for bathing are also beneficial as they add moisture to the skin.
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