Do you know which skin problem I find the most annoying? Dry, itching skin. From time to time my hands and palms feel as dry as sand, and I have to apply tons of moisturizers so that I can get rid of this uncomfortable sensation.
I’m sure that many of you have gone through the same experience at least once, right? So, you know that you can’t just ignore this problem and hope that it will go away on its own. If left untreated dry skin can lead to complications such as eczema or infection if you tend to scratch yourself bloody.
Of course, you can go to the nearest drug store and buy over-the-counter lotions to moisturize your skin. But why rely on chemistry when you have terrific natural treatments lying around in your kitchen cupboard?
So, today we’re going to talk about five unbelievable home remedies for dry skin that will help you keep your skin silky to the touch. But first, let’s see why your skin has gone dry all of a sudden.
What causes dry skin?
The medical term for dry skin is xerosis, and usually, it’s nothing dangerous or worth worrying about. As most of you might remember from school, the skin consists of three layers. The one we’re interested in is the top layer, called the epidermis and it’s outmost part ( the stratum corneum).
The epidermis and the stratum corneum have an essential role – to protect the rest of the layers from infections, chemicals, or dehydration. To keep the skin well-hydrated, our cells produce proteins that prevent water evaporation. However, when something disturbs the normal functions of these proteins, we end up with dry skin.
We can divide the factors leading to dry skin into external and internal. The external ones have to do mainly with the environment, for example:
- Weather – cold or heat both can make the skin drier than usual
- Low humidity
- Frequent hot baths or hot showers
- Swimming in chlorinated pools
- Using harsh soaps or detergents
- Wearing irritating cloth material such as wool
The internal factors are related to other medical conditions which you have. For example:
- People with dermatitis are prone to dry skin
- Hypothyroidism, diabetes, and psoriasis are also related to dry skin
- Finally, it could be a side effect of medications, although it’s rarely
If you notice the following symptoms, it’s best to consult with a professional to find out what’s going on:
- The condition is not improving despite your efforts
- You have open sores from scratching.
- You can’t sleep due to the itching.
You should know that there are inherited skin disorders, which also cause dry skin. However, ichthyosis is rare, and you’d probably know if someone in your family has it.
Signs and symptoms of dry skin
Usually, dry skin is temporal and would resolve when the trigger has been removed. For example, when you change your soap or when the weather gets warm. The most common symptoms of dry skin you might experience during that time are:
- Itching
- Skin tightening sensations
- Rough skin
- Scaling
- Peeling
- Cracking
- Flaking
- Redness
Several factors might increase your chances of dry skin. The biggest one is age, of course. The older you get, the more your skin loses its elasticity and ability to absorb water and prevent dehydration. Other risk factors include:
- Living in low humidity regions or cold or hot areas
- A job, which involves frequent skin immersion
- Swimming in pools with chlorinated water
Home treatments for dry skin
As I already said, dry skin is not a severe condition in most cases. However, you should take measures to restore your skin to its natural state, because the dryness can lead to complications. After all, it might crack and allow bacteria to enter.
Usually, making sure that your skin is moist by applying a moisturizer will do the trick. So, today I’m going to offer you five amazing home remedies for dry skin that will nourish your skin and restore its natural smoothness.
1. Milk does wonders for the complexion
Even though scientists are still arguing whether drinking milk is good or bad for the body, we can’t deny that it has fascinating effects on the skin. If we go back as far as the ancient Egyptians, we will see that milk has been used to prevent aging and keep the skin young and wrinkle-free. That’s because:
- Milk contains lactic acids, which is an excellent choice for exfoliating dead skin cells.
- It’s rich in calcium and potassium, which can be useful in reducing the symptoms of itchiness and dryness.
- Thanks to the vitamin D, it stimulates the production of collagen and restores the elasticity of the skin.
- It slows down the aging process and reduces wrinkles.
Necessary ingredients:
- Cold milk
- A bowl
- Cotton balls
- Water
Process:
- Pour around three-four tablespoons of cold milk into the bowl.
- Soak a cotton ball in the liquid.
- Apply it to the affected skin.
- Wait 10 minutes so that your skin can absorb the milk.
- Wash the area with water.
- Repeat daily
Alternatively, you can mix milk with avocado, which is an excellent source of vitamins, healthy fats, and oils which are what your skin needs to stay hydrated.
Necessary ingredients:
- Avocados
- A bowl
- Milk
- A tablespoon
- A masher
- Water
Process:
- Get an avocado and mash it until you have a lump-free paste.
- Pour one tablespoon of milk into the bowl and add the avocado paste to it.
- Mix the ingredients.
- Wash the affected skin with water.
- Apply the concoction to the dry areas.
- Wait 10-15 minutes at least.
- Rinse with water.
- Repeat several times a week until the skin condition improves.
Notes: Always choose fresh, organic, unpasteurized milk for better results. The method might take several weeks to work, but you can speed up the process by applying a light moisturizer.
2. Coconut oil seals the moisture
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If you’re looking for a way to keep moisture from escaping and hydrating your skin, one of your best bets will be coconut oil. It has some potent properties thanks to:
- Saturated fats, which are perfect for sealing moisture in and preventing its loss through the pores
- Vitamin E, a nutrient helpful for restoring lost moisture and strengthening the tissues
- Capric and caprylic acids – invaluable for their anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties
- Proteins that will nourish and repair the skin
Necessary ingredients:
- Coconut oil
- A bowl
- Water
- A cloth
Process:
- Start by washing the affected dry areas well.
- Pat the skin dry with a clean towel.
- Pour some coconut oil into the bowl.
- Use your fingers to apply a thin layer of the oil over the dry skin.
- Massage it in using circular motions.
- Wait 15 minutes and wash it off with a wet cloth.
- Repeat
Alternatively, you can mix coconut oil with another moisturizing agent – yogurt.
Necessary ingredients:
- Coconut oil
- Yogurt
- Honey
- A bowl
- A whisk
- Water
Process:
- Start by cleansing the skin thoroughly with water.
- Then measure one tablespoon of coconut oil and pour it into the bowl.
- Add one tablespoon of yogurt and honey.
- Whisk the three ingredients together until they have blended well.
- Apply the blended concoction to the area using circular motions.
- Wait 10-15 minutes and rinse with water.
- Repeat.
Notes: You should do a patch test to determine if coconut oil is suitable for your skin. Also, choose organic, unrefined, extra-virgin coconut oil and avoid processed one because it might contain ingredients that may cause allergic reactions. My other warning is that you mustn’t overuse coconut oil because it might result in clogged pores and acne breakouts. Be careful and stop the treatment if you notice any issues.
3. Olive oil for smooth skin
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Another oil you can use to combat skin dryness is olive oil. It’s an excellent choice because it’s rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, which seal the moisture in the skin and form a protective layer. What’s more, it has an anti-aging effect and will take care of those bothersome wrinkles and fine lines and smooth out the rough texture of the skin.
Necessary ingredients:
- Olive oil
- A bowl
- Water
- A cleanser
Process:
- Start by cleaning the affected spot.
- Pour two tablespoon of olive oil into the bowl.
- Use your fingers to massage it into the skin.
- Be thorough.
- Wait around 15 minutes until your skin absorbs the oil.
- Rinse off with water and a cleanser.
- Repeat until the condition improves.
You can also combine olive oil with sugar to exfoliate those dead skin cells which have build-up on your skin.
Necessary ingredients:
- Sugar
- Olive oil
- A bowl
- A tablespoon
- Water
Process:
- Mix two tablespoons of olive oil and one tablespoon of sugar into the bowl.
- Stir the ingredients well.
- Massage the mixture into the affected areas.
- Wait 15 minutes.
- Rinse with water.
- Repeat.
Notes: Make sure that you do not apply too much olive oil because your skin might become oily and break out in pimples. You should also choose the brand of olive oil carefully. Opt for an extra virgin one in a glass bottle, if possible.
4. Honey is a natural humectant
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Honey is not only a healthy and tasty substitute for sugar in your tea but also an excellent remedy for various skin conditions, including dryness. It draws the moisture inside the skin, seals it there, and forms a protective “shield.” What’s more, honey has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties so that it will keep infections at bay and promote healing.
Necessary ingredients:
- Honey
- Milk
- A bowl
- Water
- Tablespoons
Process:
- Measure one tablespoon of honey and one of milk.
- Add them to the bowl and mix the ingredients well.
- Apply the concoction to the skin.
- Wait for it to dry.
- Rinse with water or take a shower.
- Repeat every couple of days.
You can also mix honey and banana for a stronger moisturizing effect.
Necessary ingredients:
- A ripe banana
- Honey
- A bowl
- Fork
- Water
Process:
- Take the ripe banana and peel it.
- Then mash it with a fork.
- Add two tablespoons of honey into the bowl and mix them with the banana paste.
- Apply to the dry skin and wait 20 minutes.
- Rinse with water.
- Repeat twice a week.
Notes: Just like coconut oil, too much honey might clog your pores so keep an eye for acne breakouts and stop the treatment if you notice any. Also, go for raw, organic honey and stay away from ones with added ingredients.
5. Oatmeal eases itchiness
Most of you probably take oats for breakfast now and then, but do you know that oatmeal can be an efficient ally in your battle with dry skin? Well, scientists have discovered that oats contain avenanthramides – chemicals that fight redness and inflammation. So, when you accidentally expose your skin to harsh soaps, you can take an oatmeal bath to reduce the uncomfortable sensations.
Necessary ingredients:
- Oatmeal
- Bath
- Blender
- Cup
- Lavender oil
Process:
- Grind the oatmeal into the blender.
- Pour one cup of blended oatmeal into the bath.
- Add a few drops of lavender oil.
- Get into the tub and soak for 15 minutes.
- Then get out of the bath and rinse with clean water.
- Repeat every week.
Alternatively, you can also make the following cream:
Necessary ingredients:
- Oatmeal
- Food processor
- Lavender oil
- Coconut oil
- A pan
- A stove
- An airtight jar
Process:
- Start by grinding the oatmeal (1/4th of a cup) in the food processor.
- Measure ¾ of a cup of coconut oil.
- Pour the coconut oil into the pan.
- Heat it on the stove (low heat setting).
- Wait for it to liquefied.
- Turn the stove off.
- Add five drops of lavender oil and the grounded oatmeal.
- Mix the ingredients well while they cool down until you have a pudding-like consistency.
- Transfer the concoction to the jar.
- When it completely cools down apply it to the skin.
- Wait for it to dry and rinse with water.
- Repeat.
Notes: If you are allergic to oats, you should not use this remedy.
How to prevent dry skin?
If you are prone to dry skin, you can take preventive measures so that you don’t have to worry about dryness. Here are some tips for you to follow:
- Avoid harsh soaps and detergents. Go for mild ones, unscented.
- Apply moisturizers regularly to prevent the moisture from escaping.
- Do not linger in the shower. Limit your bathing time to 10 minutes and avoid hot water as much as possible.
- Do not bathe more than once a day.
- Use rubber gloves when you have to use chemicals or strong, harsh soaps.
- Cover up as much as you can during the cold months. Do not forget to wear gloves, scarves, and hats.
- Do not use alcohol-based products for your skin.
- Consider a humidifier if you live in areas with low humidity.
- Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects of any medication you’re taking.
- If you have a medical condition related to dry skin, such as hypothyroidism, make sure that you have it under control.
Remember that your best bet against dry skin is to take good care of yourself and your body. Try to avoid stress as much as possible and take things easy. Drink plenty of water and don’t forget your sunscreen when going for a walk.
What do you think about these home remedies for dry skin? How do you deal with this uncomfortable condition? Share your tips in the comments.
Cory Fang
A beauty professional, Cory Fang earned her two-year diploma in Beauty and Skin Care before going on to study Reflexology, Somatology, and electrical face and body treatments.She is committed to her client's well-being, and after working at a local beauty business for three years, she went into business for herself four years ago. A proponent on peels, skin needling, facials, and basic home care, she knows what it takes to keep skin and the body healthy.
