Natural Treatments for Dry Skin Care

Natural dry skin care will provide relief and reveal healthy, glowing skin!

Dry skin care is of special concern for aging adults.

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.

Simple yet effective treatment for dry skin care...
• Use Natural and Organic Cleansers - Avoid soaps and cleansers that contain harsh alcohols (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.

  The best lotions for dry skin may contain fatty alcohols that moisturize skin.

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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 homemade 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: 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. Many folks with dry skin report softer skin after installing a filter on their shower head.

Using mineral water and natural facial cleansers will keep skin healthy and smooth...

Instead of rinsing with tap water, a pH balanced, organic toner can be used to clean off any residual make-up or dirt.

See the homemade apple cider vinegar toner and other home remedies for natural skin care.

• 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 double as antioxidants and are important to include into your daily diet to protect against further damage.

Consuming enough omega 3 fatty acids, such as flax seed and salmon oil is important in the role of hydrated skin. 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.

  Dry skin brushing will slough off dead cells and stimulate glands to produce its 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.

  Following an anti aging diet will help you stay properly hydrated.

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.

Often, it just needs a little help to "correct itself."

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.