Treating Dry Skin

Dry skin is defined as skin that flakes or scales, with or without an itch. Called Xerosis by dermatologists, it can be an annoying as well as unattractive condition, and can make the sufferer unable to sleep or wear certain clothing. In its worst expression, there is almost no moisture in the skin, causing skin that not only flakes, but also cracks, bleeds and itches.
When looking at the problem of dry skin, you should first eliminate any other causes for symptoms. Flaking can also be the sign of dermatitis or eczema, an inflammation of the skin.
If dry skin is not associated with dermatitis, it often occurs on the shins, hands and abdomen, particularly the sides of the abdomen and is caused by the lack of adequate moisture in the skin. Dry skin symptoms should be treated, since they can turn into dermatitis.
As is true with several skin conditions, symptoms often worsen in the winter months, when humidity is low and forced air heating systems further reduce humidity, particularly indoors. In these cases, humidifiers are quite effective at restoring humidity in the home and decreasing the symptoms of dry skin.
There is a genetic predisposition to dry skin also, and the possibility of developing dry skin increases with age as the body and skin change.
To treat dry skin and alleviate the symptoms, there are several steps you can take. One is to take lukewarm, rather than very warm or hot, baths and showers. Hot water can dry the skin quickly. In the same vein, showers and baths should be limited to five or ten minutes, since longer times will also dry the skin excessively.
A good method for preventing or treating dry skin is to apply a moisturizer immediately after drying off from a shower or just after washing your hands. This allows for better absorption of the moisturizer into the skin.
A body and hand soap containing moisturizers can help, and you should avoid the use of harsh soaps and detergents. These tend to dry the skin, as do perfumes.
The use of heavy creams and lotions in the winter months when the air is drier may help control symptoms, while lighter lotions in the summer may be effective.
It will help to avoid scratching or rubbing the skin, since this can will make the symptoms worse, and can also cause infections.
If the condition becomes particularly bad and the skin is scaly, you can apply a salicylic acid solution or cream. This substance will remove the top layer of skin, including the dry, scaly portion.
Drinking lots of water also helps keep skin hydrated and full, and a regular skin regimen with a gentle cleanser and good moisturizer can keep facial skin full and flexible.