Natural Aids for Dry Skin
Millions of people cope with dry skin every day, making the skin care business a multi-billion dollar industry. There are lots of products available in stores today, ranging from the cheapest topical creams to the most expensive spa treatments. But did you know that dry skin is something you can treat naturally? The following aids won’t just save you money but will also give you long-term results with a little or no risk at all.
Olive Oil
Olive oil makes a versatile skincare treatment. It instantly grooms dry cuticles, removes makeup, and soothes common skin conditions like dryness and itch. What’s more, olive oil contains high levels of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that promote not just good skin but also better health. For a soft and supple skin, dab a thin layer of extra-virgin olive oil on your skin before applying moisturiser.
Honey
Honey is a time-tested aid for chapped, cracked lips. Apply a thin layer of honey before going to bed and wake up with soft kissable lips! Honey can also be used to soothe cracked heels and rough elbow.
Greek yoghurt
Yoghurt makes a great skin cleanser because it prompts a mild exfoliating action that removes dry skin – leaving you feeling refreshed. It is also a safer exfoliant choice for people with very dry skin because yoghurt cleans using lactic acid and not harsh scrubbing granules.
Avocado and Papaya
Applying a homemade facial mask made from avocado is another good way to treat dry skin. Puree half an avocado and add a teaspoon of olive oil. Apply the mask on your face and leave it there for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse it off. Expect to feel moisturised and refreshed. Apply moisturiser after if you want. You can also use papaya facial mask by combining 3 tablespoons of mashed papaya with ½ cup of Greek yoghurt. Papaya has bleaching properties that help even skin tone and gives your skin a wonderful glow.
Oatmeal
Add a cup of oatmeal in a warm water bath. This helps rehydrate your skin by locking in the moisture from the bath water.
Additional Tips for Dry Skin
Cleanse gently.
Fragrant soaps might be an ideal choice for many people, especially women, but they may not be what your skin is looking for. Opt for gentle super-fatted soaps that are free of fragrance. Consider using bath soaps that contain ceramides – the fatty molecules that make up the outer barrier of the skin. These compounds help keep moisture, preventing dry skin.
Avoid direct sun exposure.
Sun damage is one of the leading causes of dry skin, wrinkles and similar problems. Make sure to put on a hat or use umbrella when going during hot, sunny days. Applying sunscreen and dressing right will also protect you from the harmful, skin-damaging effects of UV rays.
Choose moisturiser wisely.
Moisturisers come in different types. Humectants – like urea, glycerine, hyaluronic acid, propylene glycol – absorbs water from the air. Emollients like baby, mineral or plant oils, replace oils in the skin. Some brands combine these two. Avoid using anti-ageing moisturisers in winter as they often contain retinoid which can worsen dry skin.
Shave smartly.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the best time to shave is after you shower. The reason is that hair is softer and more pliable after shower, making shaving easier. Always use shaving gel or cream and shave in the direction the hair is growing. And make sure your razor is sharp to avoid irritating your skin.
Go for warm, not hot shower.
Hot water is not recommended for those who have dry skin. Hot showers strip your body of its natural oil barrier that is needed to keep it moist and hydrated. Skin care experts recommend opting for warm, short showers or baths that last no longer than 5-10 minutes.
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