Re-hydrating Dry Skin

Many things can contribute to having xeroderma (dry skin). Some of the things that contribute to having dry skin are the weather changing, seasonal changes, if we change our diet, and how much water we drink even traveling. Any of these (or all of these) can contribute to having dry skin.

Is your skin itchy? Do you feel like your skin is burning and it's red or is it chaffing? These are all symptoms of having xeroderma. Just applying more lotion doesn't solve the problem. It requires some diligence on your part along with a good skin care regiment. There are some simple steps that you can do to help re-hydrate your skin.

• Water. Drink plenty of water. It has been recommended that we consume 64 ounces of water daily. When our body consumes water it helps to re-hydrate our skin naturally.
• Cleansers. Use gentle cleansers when washing your skin. You want to avoid using soap or cleansers that have harsh chemicals.
• Toner. Apply a toner that doesn't have any alcohol. The toner will help to even out the skin.
• Moisturize. Part of your skin care regiment is to moisturize your skin daily. Even after your skin becomes re-hydrated you will still want to apply lotion and other moisturizers on your skin.
• Caffeine. Caffeine, besides being a stimulant, is also a diuretic. Drinking caffeinated drinks helps the body in expelling liquids. If you are already dehydrated and drink caffeinated drinks you are creating more of a problem. Stop drinking drinks with caffeine.
• Night Creams. Use night creams every night. Right after you have cleansed your face for the night, apply a good night cream. Night creams are richer than normal moisturizers.
• Sunscreen. In the morning after you have washed your face, apply your facial moisturizer. Let your moisturizer set for about ten minutes before applying your sunscreen. There are some good moisturizers available that have sunscreen in them.
• Facials. A good facial goes a long way to helping re-hydrate your face. If you can afford it, get a facial at a spa. A trained professional will help you get your face onto a good healthy skin regiment.

If you are still having patches of dry skin, try applying either a skin balm or petroleum jelly to help sooth out the small patches of dry skin.

Unfortunately, if you have tried all of the above steps and your dry skin is still there you will want to seek the advice of a dermatologist. When dry skin is severe and persistent it can be a sign of a more serious medical problem.