How to Keep Elbows Moisturized

There’s nothing worse than having elbows so rough that they snag your favorite sweater or blouse. Rough, dry elbows are unattractive and can become sore, cracked or discolored. It’s a challenge to keep them moisturized, especially during the cold winter months. There are steps you can take to keep your elbows looking nice and soft.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Start taking care of your dry skin before the cold weather starts. Don’t wait until your elbows are already in bad shape. Include elbow care in your daily beauty ritual.
2. Turn down the temperature on the hot water heater. Nothing strips your body of natural oils faster than a long hot shower or bath. Pat your skin dry after your bath instead of rubbing vigorously.
3. Bathe with a mild, unscented soap rather than a harsh antibacterial variety.
4. Exfoliate your elbows gently with a scrub or a pumice stone several times a week. Don’t get too aggressive. If they’re already dry and cracked, vigorous scrubbing could make them worse.
5. Moisturize your elbows after your bath or shower, and several times throughout the day with a good hydrating cream. Look for ingredients such as alpha hydroxy, Vitamin E and aloe, which are beneficial for extremely dry areas of skin. You can also apply oils directly to your rough elbows or add them to your bath water.

Tips & Warnings

• Petroleum jelly or mineral oil are inexpensive alternatives and make good overnight moisturizers.
• Check with your physician if your elbows haven’t improved after a week or two to rule out eczema or psoriasis.