What is Dry Skin?
Dry skin isn’t a diagnosable health condition, rather a more basic skin condition that is very common and not dangerous by any means. Especially prevalent in areas that are dry and cold, dry skin occurs when your skin cannot produce enough moisture to keep it healthy. This may lead your skin to crack, be irritated and scaly.
What are the Symptoms of Dry Skin?
Dry skin is normally temporary; however, it can be a lifelong condition or develop into eczema. Any of these symptoms can be a sign of dry skin:
- Gray, tarnished skin
- Peeling or Scaling
- Red patches
- Skin develops cracks that may have bled or dry blood
- Skin looks and feels rough
- Tightness around skin after being in contact with water
What are the Causes of Dry Skin?
- Harsh Soap: Hand soap may have chemicals that target oil, including the natural oil your skin makes. Using these types of soaps will make the skin on your hands dry.
- Heat: Being in or near hot places will dry up your skin. For example, being near stoves, outdoor fires, space heaters will reduce the humidity and dry up your skin.
- Hot Showers and Pools: Swimming in pools that are strongly chlorinated or hot may make your skin dry. In addition, taking a hot shower for an extended period of time may dry out your skin.
- Skin Conditions: Those that have psoriasis or eczema are more likely to have dry skin.
- Weather Conditions: During the winter, cold and dry climates will make your skin dry. However, if you live in a place that has cold and dry conditions year-round, your skin may be dry year round.
When to see a Doctor?
The majority of people who have dry skin can cure it through home remedies. However, you should see a dermatologist if:
- Difficulty sleeping because of dry skin
- Dry skin begins turning red
- Scratching causes infections and open sores
- Skin begins peeling in large areas
- Your skin remains dry after using home remedies
Regular screening: No regular screening is required, unless your doctor recommends that you do regular checkups with a dermatologist.
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Dry Skin
Dry skin can be mostly cured by implementing these basic lifestyle practices:
- Apply Aloe Vera to sunburns
- Apply lotion directly after showering and to dry spots
- Avoid scorching hot showers or baths
- If your home is dry, try a humidifier
- Shower in under 10 minutes
- Stay hydrated
- Use a body wash that has moisturizes
Common Ayurvedic Remedies for Dry Skin
Sandalwood | Neem | Aloe Vera | Moringa | Jasmine leaves
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