The recipe for dry skin care
Dry skin cannot be ignored. Dry skin leads to cracking of
the upper layer of skin and gives it a real bad appearance.
The main causes of dry skin include: dry climate, hormonal
changes, too much exfoliation and treatment of other skin
disorders. Moreover, dryness could be the inherent nature
of one’s skin. Whatever be the cause, ‘dry skin
care’ is very important (but not very difficult).
‘Dry skin care’ starts with moisturisers, the
most effective remedy for dry skin. Generally moisturisers
are classified under 2 categories based on the way they provide
‘dry skin care’.
The first category includes moisturisers that provide ‘dry
skin care’ just by preserving the moisture within the
skin e.g. Vaseline. These moisturisers are relatively inexpensive
and are readily available (even at grocery shops).
The second category includes moisturisers that work by drawing
moisture from the environment and supplying it to the skin.
This is a very effective way of ‘dry skin care’
in humid conditions. The moisturisers that provide ‘dry
skin care’ in this way are also called humectants. For
proper dry skin care, you must use a non-greasy type of moisturiser,
as far as possible. Humectants fall in this category. The
ingredients of humectants include propylene glycol, urea,
glycerine, hyaluronic acid etc
‘Dry skin care’ is not about just using moisturisers
but also using them properly. The best ‘dry skin care
procedure’ is to cleanse the skin before the application
of moisturiser. You can make your ‘dry skin care’
even more effective by applying the moisturiser while the
skin is still damp (after cleansing). Also, make sure that
you use soap-free products (especially on your face, neck
and arms). Exfoliation does help in dry skin care, by removing
the dead skin cells. However, don’t exfoliate too hard.
Your dry skin care procedures/products should also take care
of sun protection. Avoid too much and too direct exposure
to sun (simply by using an umbrella/hat etc). Use a good sunscreen
lotion before going out. A lot of moisturisers provide sun
protection too, along with dry skin care.
You also have natural products for ‘dry skin care’
i.e. products that provide ‘dry skin care’ in
a natural way (without the use of synthetic chemicals). These
dry skin care products supply lipid enhancements to the skin,
hence enabling moisture retention within the skin. Another,
important thing for ‘dry skin care’ is the temperature
of water you use for shower or for washing your face –
Use warm water; too hot or too cold water can cause dryness
too.
‘Dry skin care’ is also about being gentle with
your skin. You should avoid harsh detergents and alcohol based
cleansers. Also, after a face wash, do not rub your towel
on your face, just pat gently to soak the water off.
On the whole, dry skin care is really simple for anyone who
takes that seriously.
|
