4 Tips for Combating Dry Skin

4 Tips for Combating Dry Skin

5 February 2020
 Categories: , Blog


Most people experience dry skin at some point in their lives. A new soap may leave their skin feeling tight and parched, or a particularly cold winter can cause your skin to feel raw. For people with dry skin, dryness is an everyday occurrence. Fortunately, you can find relief. If you suffer from dry skin, here are four tips that will help you combat it:

1. Use a gentler cleanser.

Harsh soaps may not be the cause of dry skin, but they can certainly exacerbate it. If the skin on your face or body is dry, it may be time to throw out your old cleansers and body washes. When shopping for a new cleanser, look for options that claim to have hydrating properties. In general, products that foam will be harsher on your skin because they contain more surfactants. Seeing suds doesn't mean your skin is getting any cleaner. Gentle cleansing products that come in a milk or lotion form can be easier on your dry skin.

2. Moisturize frequently.

People with dry skin should moisturize as often as necessary. Moisturizers and lotions are filled with various ingredients that attract water into the skin and seal it in. To start, it's a good idea to moisturize your skin every time you wash it, which for most people means morning and night. However, if you find your skin growing dry during the day, feel free to reapply moisturizer. Some people like to carry a travel-sized container of moisturizer with them all day for this purpose.

3. See your dermatologist.

Your skincare routine at home determines much of your overall skin health. However, if your skin is still itchy, dry, and uncomfortable after making these changes, you should visit your dermatologist. Dry skin can be caused by dermatitis, eczema, allergic reactions, or some medications. Your dermatologist can examine your skin and make any necessary diagnosis. If you do have an underlying skin condition, your dermatologist will be able to prescribe the right treatment. You can contact dermatologists through websites like https://eastcarolinadermatology.com.

4. Consider prescription medication.

If you suffer from severe dry skin, over-the-counter solutions may not be enough to provide relief. Fortunately, there are prescription medications available that may help you. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, topical steroid creams can help make you more comfortable by soothing irritated skin. If an immune system response is the culprit, as in the case of allergies, you may be given drugs that change the way your immune system works. If your dermatologist believes you can benefit from these treatments, they can write you a prescription.