Combating Dryness in Your Skin

Dry skin, who's got it? Well, everyone gets dried out from time to time. It is usually due to the weather or not so excellent eating habits. The most important step is to identify why your skin is dry and take steps towards fixing the problem at the source.

So how should you prevent dry skin? There is the old tried and true piece of advice, moisturize every day. This is important if you are battling a dry skin problem. You need to make sure and give your skin a lather of outside moisture to help lock in all your natural oils. There is the obvious avoid soaps and cleansers that have harsh chemicals in them. You can always wear reusable gloves when cleaning your house; that will help count down on exposure. Did you know hot water actually dries out your skin? Something you may not have thought about is hot water removes the natural oils on your skin. This leaves your skin exposed to the outside elements and can ultimately damage the surface. Speaking of outside elements, dressing right for the weather is also important. We all know we should slather a thick layer of sunscreen when stepping out in the sun. However, have you thought about what the winter weather does? The dry windy air can really do a number on skin cells and therefore we should all think about what those cold skin areas are really going through. Your diet affects your whole being. So take a look at your diet and think “Am I feeding my mind, body, and soul appropriately?” If not, then you should step up your game. Eating foods rich in antioxidants (like berries, tomatoes, beans, etc) will aid in the speedy production of healthy skin cells. Also, some studies have shown that the fats in milk can actually create a barrier to prevent skin damage. However, there is some debate on the best intake method for creating healthy skin through the fats. So either way get that milk in your body; whether you like chugging back a cup of cold milk or taking a Cleopatra inspired milk bath. FYI, I do recommend a milk bath or a milk compress for smaller patches. Lastly, drink plenty of water! Water = hydration = smooth happy skin Temporary Topical Solutions Which topical solution works best for you? So, again milk. Use a clean cloth soaked in whole milk and place on the dry, irritated, or itchy skin patches. Leave the compress there for about 10-15 minutes; I do recommend rinsing in cool water just to remove residue. No soap. You should be careful with small children as the lactic acid, which heals the skin, can burn a little if the skin is cracked. Have you ever tried natural aloe vera? I recommend aloe for a host of skin conditions and irritations; it works as a natural antiseptic as well. Try using fresh aloe and rub it all over the irritated patches and allow it to air dry; this should help to relieve redness and itchiness on the skin. Moisturizing everyday, this is important. What is also important is the product used. I recommend using a natural product like olive oil, sunflower seed oil, or coconut oil. If you are having issues with your feet and hands, after your nightly shower, slater a thick layer on and cover with socks or gloves and leave overnight. In the morning you should see an improvement in the condition of your skin.

Honey and oatmeal are great natural moisturizers, and together they work even better. Even better, most households keep these items on hand. Honey on its own is a natural antiseptic and has previously been used in wars to treat in-field wounds. It locks in natural skin oils and moisturizes your skin, but it will not leave an oily feeling later. Oatmeal, again, has been used through the ages to cleanse the skin. It also binds to your skin and forms a barrier to protect; this helps to lock in oils and relieves skin conditions such as eczema. I personally have an issue with severe dry skin. My skin gets so itchy and then it starts to crack. In the winter, sometimes it feels unbearable; so in order to combat this problem I have found natural products are usually the way to go. I like to use a homemade Oatmeal Skin Mask 2-3 times a week. This helps to give my hands especially an intense healing session. When making it homemade, or ordering through me, you can infuse many herbs into your oatmeal mask and double up on benefits. I hope this information was helpful but for more direct information or to order skin moisturizing products, please reach out to me directly or check out the Shop section on the website. Blessed may you be with soft skin wishes!