Having dry skin is a very common skin problem especially during the "ber" months where the weather is cold and the humidity is very low
. But sometimes, dry skin could cause itching which could really be intolerable and could interfere with day to day activities such as sleeping. Constant scratching could even worsen the condition of the skin that is why it is very important to address the issue right away and treat it. With this, let me share to you some tips on how to treat dry itchy skin.
1. Avoid
bathing in hot water. Hot water makes the skin rough, scaly and itchy. It could also aggravate dry skin so it's best to bathe in lukewarm water.
2. Avoid using harsh bar soaps when taking a bath. Harsh bar soaps can strip away the skin's natural oils which could make the skin dry and itchy. It's recommended that you use gentle and moisturizing soaps such as Dove and Olay for your body and facial cleansers such as Cetaphil when washing your face.
3. Apply lotions or moisturizers right after drying yourself with a towel after taking a bath. This allows to seal in the moisture in the skin making the skin hydrated all day. It is best to reapply moisturizers during the day to prevent dryness especially on areas prone to dryness such as arms, legs and hands.
4. If you have red patches on your skin due to excessive dryness, treat it by applying a topical cortisone creams that could be bought over the counter. It helps subside the redness and the itch that comes with it as well. Cases like this are usually treated for five to fifteen days depending on the gravity of the problem. If you've tried applying over the counter topical ointments and the problem still persists, consult a doctor as soon as possible.
5. Wear sunscreen when going out. It is important to slather on some sunscreen when going out because you'll be exposed to the sun's harmful UV rays. The winter season is definitely not an exception to this. According to some studies, the snow can reflect as much as 90% of the UV rays from the sun so it's best to stay protected all the time.