Tips and Treatments for Dry Skin

If your skin feels rough or looks flaky, you've probably explored some treatments for dry skin. You may even feel like you've tried it all. Nearly everyone experiences dry skin at some point, and the good news is there are effective solutions that can bring relief and leave your skin feeling soft, smooth and nourished.

From soothing over-the-counter products to specialized treatments, there's a range of options to help you regain hydration and restore your skin's natural glow. If your dryness is severe, it's always a good idea to consult with a doctor to find the best treatment for your needs.

The Importance of Hydrating Moisturizers

Put simply, dry skin is the result of a loss of moisture in the layers of your skin. This poor moisture can come from a variety of factors, including age, the climate you live in, genetics, underlying health conditions and occupations that have you working outside. Excessively washing your hands can even be a culprit. While you can't control all of these factors, spending time to moisturize correctly can minimize the symptoms of dry skin.

Opt for moisturizers that soothe, hydrate and provide a barrier over your outer layer of skin to prevent cracking or peeling. Apply your moisturizer after bathing or showering while the skin is still damp to seal in moisture. It's also best to moisturize in the morning and before bed, as your skin naturally loses moisture overnight, particularly if you sleep in a low-humidity environment. Stick to these application times to optimize your treatments for dry skin.

Look for the Right Skin Care Ingredients

Many moisturizers contain an emollient that helps to soften the skin. There are two main types of emollients — humectants and occlusives — and many moisturizing products contain a combination of both. Humectants, like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, propylene glycol and urea, attract and bind water to your skin, per the Cleveland Clinic. Essentially, they increase moisture and protect your outer layer of skin.

Occlusive skin care ingredients, like petroleum jelly, mineral oil and shea butter, assist in maintaining the skin's existing moisture. Occlusives possess a thicker consistency, creating a waterproof coating on the skin that diminishes water loss and evaporation. They are also extremely helpful in areas of the body where dryness can occur more readily, including the elbows and knees.

These dry skin remedies help retain moisture or create additional moisture, properly locking it in.

Remove Flaky Skin

Exfoliation removes dry, flaky skin and can be a useful way to beat the symptoms and appearance of dry skin. Above all, gentle exfoliation is key.

For dry, sensitive skin, the American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends using a washcloth and mild exfoliant to help remove flaky skin. They also recommend immediately following exfoliation with a moisturizer. Keep in mind that too much exfoliation can lead to irritation and make your dry skin worse, so don't rub too harshly or too often.

Go Easy on Hot Water and Harsh Soaps

While a long, hot shower with fragrant soaps may sound amazing, it can negatively impact the health of our skin. According to the Mayo Clinic, taking hot showers, scrubbing skin excessively and taking multiple baths or showers a day can remove natural oils from the skin. When these natural oils are stripped away, our skin loses moisture and dryness can occur. Using harsh or heavily scented soaps can have the same effect.

When it comes to bathing, lukewarm water is best. Use mild or fragrance-free soap to maintain the skin's natural oils. If possible, keep showers to 10 minutes or less.

Add Moisture to Indoor Air

Cold or dry weather means less moisture in the air, which can often lead to drier skin. To combat this, run a humidifier during cold or dry seasons.

Bedrooms and frequently used spaces are great locations for humidifiers. They provide a consistent moisture level, which can help eliminate dry skin. While you might not immediately consider air quality as a potential treatment for dry skin, it's a must-have for optimal skin health.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy Foods

You've heard it before, but drinking enough water is the key to optimal health — and that includes your skin health. When you're dehydrated, your skin is impacted, so making sure you're drinking an adequate amount of water each day can curb some of the symptoms of dry skin.

It's also important to maintain a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats. These foods keep your skin looking and feeling radiant. Make sure your diet incorporates foods high in vitamins A, E and D, along with healthy fats and protein to lock in moisture.

Keeping Skin Healthy and Glowing

Dry skin can be uncomfortable, and at times, a bit embarrassing. Remember that managing and treating dry skin involves a combination of hydrating practices, including the right moisturizers and ingredients, gentle cleansing habits, exfoliation, and humidifiers, as well as proper hydration and diet.

Dry skin remedies often work from the inside out. When you incorporate these treatments into daily routines, you can effectively combat dry skin, restore moisture and achieve healthier, more comfortable skin.

Clinically reviewed on July 24, 2024.