Dry Skin: How to Have a Healthier, More Youthful Complexion

Dry Skin can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, especially when it's on your face. Signs that you have dry skin include itching, redness, peeling, and scaly skin, and sometimes skin may simply feel as rough as a piece of sandpaper.

Adjusting your skincare routine can make a difference. If you are concerned about your dry skin, talk to your doctor. There might be a medical reason for your skin's dry condition.

There are plenty of products available on the market that claim to be useful in solving irritations caused by dry skin.

Every skin type is different, so what may work for one person's skin may not work for someone else. Your face is more sensitive than other parts of the skin, so be sure to check the labels of any product or treatment before applying them. Stop using them if they cause discomfort and unpleasant side effects.

General tips for how to care for dry skin

Use a mild cleansing lotion that is unscented or a facial soap containing pure aloe vera gel, coconut oil, or shea butter. Wash your face daily in lukewarm water.

Avoid using cleansing solutions and soaps that contain harsh ingredients as they contain drying agents.

Your skincare products should be suited to your skin type — normal, dry, oily or combination. Mature and sensitive skin needs specific skincare products.

Always wear a sunscreen that has an SPF 30 or higher. Some foundations and skincare products contain SPF.

Reading labels of any product before buying them will keep you better informed as to whether it's right for your skin type.

After your bath or shower applying moisturizing lotion is a good way to nourish your dry skin.

Check the temperatures of your shower — if the water is too hot it removes your natural skin oils, which leads to further dryness and scaly skin.

During the winter months wear scarfs around your facial area as exposure to cold weather can exacerbate dry skin.

In summer, limit the amount of time you spend in the sun.

How to use Foundation on dry skin

Before utilizing any foundation, bear in mind the importance of applying moisturizer generously over your face.

Wear a foundation that both hydrates and provides good coverage. To improve the radiance and tone of your skin, choose a foundation containing  Vitamins A & C and antioxidants. They'll moisturize and nourish your face.

Don't wear a formula that settles into facial lines because your skin will look washed out, shriveled, and aged.

You may want to use an emollient. This is a fat or oil that acts as a moisturizer by filling in gaps in dry skin, making it smooth.

Make sure you are not using matte formulas or oil-control foundations as they can cause your skin to be excessively dehydrated.

Exfoliate every night, especially around the nose and in folds of your chin as these areas are prone to flaxy skin.

Cream foundations are better than foundation powders. Powders absorb the moisture, therefore making the dry skin look even drier.

When applying the foundation, it is better to use a sponge or brush rather than your fingers.

what are some Home Remedies for dry skin?

In a 2013 study, researchers found sunflower seed oil helpful in hydrating dry skin, while olive oil damages the skins natural barrier.

Another researcher explains that coconut oil contains saturated fatty acids that have softening agent characteristics.

Oatmeal has both anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant attributes that are beneficial for dry skin and its safe to use on the face — try a homemade oatmeal mask after your usual skin regime.

It is alleged that Cleopatra's beauty is attributed to long soaks in milk baths. Studies today are inconclusive about whether applying milk directly onto the skin is helpful for dry skin or if drinking it has any influence on the state of skin.

Honey is known to be a moisturizing, therapeutic anti-inflammatory healing balm. It is gentle enough to allow direct application onto your skin, as a natural face mask, to help relieve the dryness on your face.

Mineral oil, also known as Petroleum jelly, is said to be helpful in repairing dry skin caused by aging.

These are just a few tips and tricks for dealing with dry skin.

Resources— HealthlineMedicine News TodayGood HousekeepingBustleAmerican Academy of Dermatology

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