Dry skin can be a real pain, especially in the wintertime. But before you go out and buy an expensive cream, consider using one of these natural remedies instead.
All of these remedies use ingredients that you probably have in your kitchen or pantry. So why not give them a try? You may be surprised at how well they work!
What Causes Dry Skin?
Dry skin can be caused by a number of things, including dehydration, cold weather, over-exfoliation, and using harsh soaps.
There are also a number of natural remedies that can help to soothe and hydrate dry skin. Some of the most popular ones include using coconut oil, olive oil, or honey as a moisturizer; drinking plenty of water; and avoiding long hot showers.
Dietary Fixes for Dry Skin
Your diet might be the culprit behind your dry skin. Here are some foods that you might want to consider cutting back on:
Salt: Too much salt can dehydrate you, and this includes the salt in your food and the salt in your skincare products.
Caffeine: Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it causes you to urinate more often and lose more water. This can lead to dehydration and dry skin.
Alcohol: Alcohol also has dehydrating effects, so it's best to drink in moderation if you want to keep your skin hydrated.
Dairy: Some people are sensitive to dairy, and this can lead to dry skin. If you suspect dairy to be the culprit, try eliminating it from your diet for a few weeks and see if your skin improves.
5 Natural Remedies for Dry Skin
Although there are a lot of products in the market that address dry skin, you can simply use ingredients from your kitchen for equally impressive results. Here are 5 natural ingredients that can moisturize your skin.
1. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that can help hydrate dry skin. Simply apply a small amount of coconut oil onto the affected area and massage it gently into your skin until it is fully absorbed.
2. Oatmeal Bath
Oatmeal is an excellent natural remedy for dry skin. To prepare an oatmeal bath, add one cup of finely ground oatmeal to a warm bath and soak for 15 to 20 minutes. The oatmeal will help to soothe and moisturize your skin.
3. Honey
Honey is a natural humectant that helps to lock in moisture and soothe dry skin. To use honey as a natural remedy for dry skin, apply a thin layer of honey onto the affected area and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.
4. Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer that can help soothe and hydrate dry skin. Simply apply a small amount of aloe vera gel onto the affected area and massage it gently into your skin until it is fully absorbed.
5. Olive oil
Olive oil is a natural emollient that helps to soften and moisturize dry skin. To use olive oil as a natural remedy for dry skin, warm up a small amount of olive oil and apply it onto the affected area. Massage it gently into your skin until it is fully absorbed.
Try those natural solutions and observe how your skin responds to those treatments. You should be able to see some relief even from the first application and within a few weeks the results would be more permanent giving you a softer and smoother complexion.
Homemade Hydrating Masks
When it comes to natural remedies for dry skin, masks are one of the best options. Not only do they hydrate the skin, but they also help to soothe any irritation or inflammation.
There are a ton of different recipes out there, but this simple one is my favorite:
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon almond milk
Instructions:
- Mash the banana until it's a thick paste.
- Add the honey and almond milk, and mix until well combined.
- Apply the mask to your face, making sure to avoid the eye area.
- Leave on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
- Pat dry and follow up with your favorite moisturizer.
Lifestyle Changes to Help Relieve Dry Skin
Sometimes taking care of dry skin means making some lifestyle changes. Drink more water, for starters—it’s one of the best ways to stay hydrated from the inside out. Try to make sure your diet includes plenty of fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamins like A, C, and E to keep your skin in optimal condition.
There are also plenty of ways you can help your skin externally. Avoid long, hot showers or baths, as this will further dry out your skin. Moisturize after showering and whenever you feel it necessary—ideally you should use products specifically designed for dry skin.
Investigate the possibility of adding a humidifier to your home or office if it’s cold or dry outside, as this will help replace moisture in the air that your skin needs. Lastly, limit sun exposure with sunscreen or protective clothing—too much ultraviolet light can be damaging to the skin.
Choosing the Right Cleansers and Moisturizers
Choosing the right cleansers and moisturizers is key when it comes to treating dry skin. When searching for products, be sure to look for ones that are specifically designed to moisturize.
Avoid soap-based cleansers, which strip away the oils that keep your skin soft and hydrated. Instead, opt for gentle, creamy foaming cleansers—they won't strip away your natural oils and will help maintain your skin's delicate balance.
When it comes to moisturizing, opt for lotions or creams that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, basic oil, lanolin, shea butter, and vitamin E. These ingredients can provide intense hydration and help reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
For best results, apply moisturizer immediately after cleansing—this helps seal in the moisture. And make sure to use a moisturizer every day—even if you have oily skin!
Getting Professional Help for Severe Dry Skin
Of course, these remedies are great for mild to moderate dry skin, but if you have severely dry skin, it’s best to seek professional help from a dermatologist. They can give you advice on how to manage your skin and prescribe topical treatments or medications that can help get your skin back in shape.
Your dermatologist can give you other lifestyle tips as well such as using a humidifier in your bedroom if your home has low humidity levels, as this can be helpful for those with sensitive skin.
As with any skincare regimen, they'll need to assess your individual situation and identify the factors that are making it worse before they make any recommendations.
Conclusion
So if you're looking for a way to soothe your dry skin, consider these natural remedies. They're simple, affordable, and can be done right at home. And if you're concerned about the potential side effects of using natural remedies, don't be—these solutions are all gentle and safe for your skin.
Further Reading:
Natural Skin Care Routines That Really Work - Get the Glow!
Skin Care's Secret Ingredient: Vitamin C and How to Get the Most Out of It
Heal Your Complexion With Nature's Most Powerful Herb: Chamomile for Skin Treatment
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