Dry skin, also called xerosis. The surface layer of the skin is cracked, allowing water to evaporate and causing the underlying skin to dry out. The cure? Hydrate the skin in the shower/bath and then put on the grease!
Dry skin, also called xerosis. The surface layer of the skin is cracked, allowing water to evaporate and causing the underlying skin to dry out. The cure? Hydrate the skin in the shower/bath and then put on the grease!
Dry skin itches. Older people may, especially in the winter time, develop dry, itchy skin. Younger people with atopic dermatitis may also be affected as they are born with skin which is prone to drying out. The rash of atopic dermatitis is sometimes called eczema. Whatever the cause of your dry skin, the following recommendations are for you.
Believe it or not, water is the most common cause of dry skin. The reason for this is that dry skin occurs when the skin lacks critical oils. Frequent water contact removes these valuable oils from your skin's surface. Lotions are not that helpful when the skin is very dry as they are made up mostly of water. The best way to rejuvenate the skin is to reapply the oils (grease) immediately after water contact.
The following is a list of guidelines that you should try to incorporate into your everyday life. The best way to prevent future outbreaks is to turn these guidelines into lifelong habits.
The moisturizer must be greasy in order to adequately protect your particularly sensitive skin. I usually recommend something in a jar that you scoop out with your hand. Something thick in a tube is fine as well. Try to avoid products that come in a pump bottle.
Here is a list of recommended moisturizers: Cetaphil or Eucerin cream (not the lotion), CeraVe, Aquaphor, Vaseline (or any petroleum jelly). Remember, you don't have to put a lot on, especially in those areas that you don't want to look greasy (face and hands). Just apply enough to remove the dryness and make your skin feel soft and smooth. Of course, in areas that you don't care about a greasy look, or when you're not going out, the greasier the better!
If you have eczema or atopic dermatitis, your doctor may have prescribed for you a topical steroid (e.g. triamcinalone). If this is the case, apply the prescription medication right after the shower to the affected skin and then apply the moisturizer everywhere else. Don't cover the prescription medication with the moisturizer as this is not needed and may dilute it. Usually 3-7 day use of a topical steroid is enough to clear a flare of eczema. If it doesn't, call your doctor.
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