Natural Treatments for Dry Skin Care

Dry skin care is of growing concern for aging adults. Many of us suffer with some form of dry skin from environmental factors, heredity or stress. Others, whom previously had been able to avoid the problems associated with dry skin, may be discouraged to see them arise as we grow older.

Skin becomes thinner and less elastic with the aging process. It is less able to produce its own nourishing oils as the functioning mechanics of the skin begin to slow and breakdown.

If left untreated, dry itchy skin can turn into more serious forms of dermatitis with chronic scaling and cracking.

Thankfully, there is plenty that can be done to help our dried out armor. Whatever the cause of dry skin, we can naturally pamper it to help it look and function at its best.

Simple yet effective treatment for dry skin care...
• Use Natural and Organic Cleansers - Avoid soaps and cleansers that contain alcohol (anything associated with "Isopropyl") and detergents (most common - "Sodium Lauryl Sulfate." They worsen dry itchy skin and are often found in conventional skin care products.

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• Apply an Organic Moisturizer -

  For Face: Using a natural oil such as olive, grapeseed or almond oil (do not use if you have a nut allergy) is a wonderful dry skin remedy. See my best facial moisturizer for details on the olive oil mask. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants that help prevent skin damage. Make sure your moisturizer is too!

  For Body: Vegetable and fruit oils can be messy when used on the whole body. You may wish to consider luxurious body butter. Shea butter is excellent for dry and sensitive skin care. A natural fat derived from the Karite Tree (native to West Africa) it is rich in antioxidants that protect and nourish skin. It also has healing properties and may provide some UV protection. Although, DO NOT rely on it for adequate sun protection!

  Jojoba oil is native to the United States and Mexico. It is really a natural wax from the seed of the Jojoba Bush. This dry skin remedy mimics our skin's own lubricants and creates a barrier locking in moisture. Unlike mineral oil that suffocates skin, Jojoba oil allows our skin to breathe and does not clog pores. If you have both dry and oily skin, Jojoba is a great option to use. It should alleviate dry itchy skin without leading to more acne breakouts.

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• Avoid Tap Water
- Especially for dry skin care on the face. Hard water is especially drying on the skin. You may consider mineral water or a milk cleanser to wash the face. Instead of rinsing with water, a pH balanced, organic toner can be used to clean off any residual make-up or dirt.
• Use the "3 Minute Rule"
- Apply moisturizers to body and face within 3 minutes of bathing and cleansing. If skin is not already moist, misting with mineral water before applying a moisturizer will help keep skin extra soft and supple.
• Eat and Drink Wisely
-Staying hydrated with plenty of water is extremely important for dry skin care. Eating a variety of nutritious foods rich in Vitamins A, B, C and E will help with skin moisture and elasticity. These often double as antioxidants and are important to include into your daily diet to protect against further damage.

Omega 3 fatty acids, such as flax seed oil is important in the role of skin, anti aging and nutrition. Deficiencies in these vital nutrients are often considered one of the top dry skin causes.

• Use a Humidifier - A cool mist humidifier can help ease dry itchy skin especially during winter months.
• Gentle Exfoliation - If skin is not inflamed a gentle exfoliation process for the face or whole body is an amazing dry skin remedy. This will slough off dead cells and stimulate glands to produce it's own nourishing lubricant. Tread lightly here - too much exfoliation can be one of the causes of dry skin.
• Avoid Hot Water - this includes hot tubs, hot showers and baths. Soaking in a lukewarm milk bath with some added olive oil is a relaxing routine for dry skin care.
• Avoid Certain Foods - Caffeine, alcohol, refined sugar, and smoking all contribute greatly to the severity of dry skin.

The above suggestions can be considered by all those of any age that suffer from dry skin. For more serious skin disorders related to dry skin such as atopic dermatitis (common eczema), more aggressive treatments may be considered. Please see the natural treatment for eczema page for information on atopic dermatitis.

By listening to your body and giving it the TLC it deserves, you should see healthier more youthful looking skin - just the way nature intended!

"Here's to Your Health and Glowing Skin - Naturally!"

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The claims about ingredients and products throughout this site have not been evalutated by the US Food and Drug Administration. They are not intended nor approved to treat, cure, diagnose or prevent disease. The content of this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute from your physician or health care provider.