Winter is right around the corner, and you’ve come to the right place if you’re suffering from dry skin. So many of us are! We’re going to dive into the reasons why dry skin occurs and what you may be able to do about it.
What is Dry Skin?
Dry skin is a common condition where your skin doesn't have enough moisture. It can feel tight, rough, and sometimes itchy. Just like a plant needs water to stay green and healthy, our skin needs moisture to stay soft and smooth.
Imagine a sponge: when it's dry, it's hard and rough, but when it's wet, it's soft and squishy. Our skin is a bit like that sponge! Unfortunately, during the winter months our skin becomes much drier due to the dry air around us.
What Causes Dry Skin?
There are many reasons why our skin might become dry, so we’ll highlight a few of those below:
1. Weather (Winter!)
Just like how leaves fall off trees in the autumn, our skin can get dry in colder months. The air is less humid, which means there's less moisture for our skin.
2. Hot Showers
Even though a long hot shower feels good, especially in the winter, it can take away the skin's natural oils. These oils help keep our skin moist, so try to cut back on long, hot showers and opt for warm water.
3. Soaps and Detergents
Some soaps and laundry detergents can be harsh on our skin. They can strip away the skin's natural oils. Look for natural products with natural ingredients that are gentler on the skin.
4. Not Drinking Enough Water
Our body and skin need water to stay hydrated. If you don't drink enough, your skin can get thirsty and dry out. The general recommendation is to drink half your bodyweight in ounces of water per day. This means that if you weigh 150 pounds, you’ll want to drink 75 ounces of water. Of course, if you have kidney issues make sure to discuss your water intake with your doctor.
5. Medical Conditions
Sometimes, certain illnesses or the medicines for them can make our skin dry.
Remedies for Dry Skin
If you have dry skin, don't worry! There are many things you can do to help. You’ll notice that many of these are simply the opposite of what you see above.
1. Shorter Showers
Try taking shorter showers and use lukewarm water instead of hot water. Even better, try taking a cold shower every once in a while, since they’ve been shown to be great for your mental health.
2. Gentle Soaps
Use soaps that are gentle on the skin. Look for ones that say "for sensitive skin" or are made with natural ingredients. Goat milk soap is often a great choice, since it’s made with natural ingredients you can pronounce.
3. Drink Water
Remember to drink plenty of water every day. It's like giving your skin a drink!
4. Use a Humidifier
This is a machine that adds moisture to the air, and it’s incredibly important to use during the fall and winter. It can help keep your skin from getting too dry, especially during the colder months.
5. Moisturize!
After you take a shower or wash your hands, pat your skin dry with a towel and then apply a natural, unscented moisturizer. This helps lock in the moisture and keep your skin supple and smooth.
5 Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin
Now, let's talk about some of the best moisturizers to help your dry skin feel soft and smooth again. We chose both mainstream and small businesses for this list, but try to choose the most natural moisturizer you can.
1. Southern Natural Unscented Lotion
This lotion harnesses the natural benefits of goat's milk, and it’s our top choice for a reason. Throughout history, goat's milk has been celebrated for its rich content of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fatty acids, all of which are beneficial for the skin.
This lotion is designed to provide intense moisturization, making it a perfect remedy if you have dry or sensitive skin. Unlike many commercial products that strip the skin of its natural oils, this goat milk lotion aims to leave the skin feeling soft, hydrated, and nourished. The lotion is unscented, making it ideal for individuals who prefer products without added fragrances or for those with sensitivities to scents. Given the natural and gentle ingredients, it's a suitable choice for those with various skin conditions or for anyone seeking a more natural approach to skincare.
2. Alba
This choice is a game-changer for those battling dry skin. This lotion is a blend of skin-softening superstars that are clinically proven to deliver 100% daily hydration. Not only is it intensely hydrating, but it's also hypo-allergenic, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin types.
Since its inception in 1979, Alba Botanica has been dedicated to offering 100% vegetarian personal care products that benefit not only the user but also the environment and our furry friends. Their products, including this body lotion, are brimming with potent botanical ingredients tailored to cater to the unique needs of your skin and hair.
3. Aveeno
This choice is a dermatologist-recommended lotion designed to nourish and revitalize dry skin. Infused with the natural goodness of oat, a well-known ingredient for its skin-soothing properties, this lotion helps to restore the skin's natural barrier and maintain its moisture balance.
The unique formula is non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and provides long-lasting hydration for up to 24 hours, leaving the skin feeling soft, smooth, and healthy. Aveeno's commitment to harnessing the power of nature and science ensures that their products, including this lotion, are both effective and gentle on the skin.
4. Eos
Evolution of Smooth (EOS) offers this solution designed especially for those with extra-sensitive skin. This lotion promises 24-hour moisture, ensuring that your skin remains soft, hydrated, and protected throughout the day. The formula is enriched with Shea Oil for instant moisturization and Shea Butter for lasting protection, ensuring a silk-smooth hydration experience.
What sets this lotion apart is its composition of 7 nourishing oils and butters, all sustainably sourced. It's a product that prioritizes both skin health and environmental responsibility.
5. Cetaphil
Lastly, Cetaphil's Moisturizing Lotion is a trusted skin care solution that has garnered loyalty from its users over the years. Designed with a gentle yet effective formula, this lotion addresses various skin concerns, particularly dryness, irritation, and uneven patches.
Many users, including those who have faced persistent skin issues, have turned to Cetaphil upon doctor recommendations and have witnessed transformative results. The moisturizing lotion stands out for its lightweight consistency, making it an ideal choice for those with oily or combination skin, especially during the warmer months.
Dry skin is something many of us face, especially during certain times of the year. But with the right care and the best moisturizers, your skin can feel soft, hydrated, and happy again.
Remember to listen to your skin and give it the moisture it needs. After all, our skin is like a protective shield, and we should take good care of it!
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