10 Tips To Help You Care For Dry Flaking Skin

Dry, flaking skin can appear in different parts of the body. It is usually seen on the hands, sides of the abdomen and shins. It usually happens during the cold and dry season of winter. There can also be other reasons why it happens like an underlying disease or simply by being hereditary. Aging can also cause dry flaking skin. Even though it is normal, if it is not taken care of properly then it can lead to a more serious problem which is dermatitis. Dermatitis is a serious inflammation of the skin that can cause bleeding.

There are different types of dermatitis:

1. Seborrheic dermatitis: The affected area can become red and very itchy. It usually appears on the parts of the body that has several oil glands.
2. Atopic dermatitis: This type lasts long and it can be genetic.
3. Athelete’s foot: It is seen on the soles of the feet being dry and flaking. Some severe cases secrete pus.
4. Allergic contact dermatitis: This happens when the skin has been in contact with elements that can cause an immune reaction. One good example is the poison ivy.

There are different ways to take care of dry flaking skin and these are fairly simple to follow:

1. When taking a bath, instead of using hot water use lukewarm water. Hot water has the tendency to get rid of the natural oils from the skin.
2. Bathe in for 5 to 10 minutes only. After bathing pat dry the skin and do not rub it with towel.
3. After washing hands or taking a bath, make use of a moisturizer or lotion that has contains neutral pH. Soaps can really dry of the skin that is why the skin needs to be moisturized.
4. During the winter since it is the time when the dry flaking skin really occur use heavy creams. Then during the summer use only light creams.
5. When the face is dry, is possible, do not use tap water to wash the face. Tap water is treated with chemicals like chlorine that can really cause the skin to dry. Use mineral water instead or use natural products to cleanse he face like cosmetic milk.
6. Use soap every other day and use the mildest soap like oatmeal soap two or three times a week. This will nourish the skin and smoothen it.
7. Eat a healthy diet. Drinking and especially smoking really contributes to dry skin because it dehydrates the body. Eats lots of fruit and leafy vegetables.
8. Drink a lot of water so the body is always hydrated.
9. A humidifier is recommended during the winter. Place it in an area where you spend most of the time.
10. If the dry flaking skin becomes itchy, avoid scratching it. Instead apply coconut oil or shea butter on the affected area as needed. Avoid splashing water into the affected area. Dry flaking skin can also lead to eczema and other kinds of skin problems.