How to Stop Dry Skin

Does your skin resemble the parched desert earth?

Dry skin is a very common problem. Everyone from babies to elderly folks and everyone in between can suffer from dry skin at one time of another. Dry skin can be a mere annoyance or downright painful. Fortunately there are steps you can take to stop dry skin.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Moisturizing soap
• Lotion, oil or petroleum jelly
• Sun screen
• Olive oil or other heart-healthy oil

Instructions

1. Hydrate your skin from the inside out. Be sure to drink enough water all the time. You might be apt to drink more during hot summer months, but your skin (and body) needs plenty of water during the dry winter as well.

2. Shower or bathe just once a day. While it might seem contrary, exposing your skin to too much water, especially hard water, can cause it to dry out. Don't use water that is excessively hot, and stick with gentle, moisturizing soap.

3. Apply a thick coating of moisturizing lotion, baby oil or petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to your skin just after you step out of the tub. This will seal the moisture in, leaving you soft and smooth.

4. Avoid overexposure to the sun. Too much sun can dry out and damage your skin. Always use sunscreen!

5. Incorporate healthy oils into your diet. Olive oil and other heart-healthy oils are good for your skin, as well as your hair, nails and the rest of you!

Tips & Warnings

• If you have persistent dry, scaly patches of skin you should visit a dermatologist as you might be suffering from psoriasis, eczema or another treatable disorder.