Dry Skin and Xerosis
Causes and Symptoms
Xerosis, also often referred to as dry skin, is a rampant problem during winter. They blamed the dry skin to cold air, low humid, and heated indoor weather conditions during winters. These environmental factors lock the skin dry and remove all its natural oils leaving it rough, dry and easily irritated. As well, hot water and abrasive soaps should also be avoided as they reduce the skin’s natural protective layer by stripping more oils from the skin.
The manifestations of dry skin are such as roughness or flakiness, itching and fine cracks. Advanced symptoms are characterized by redness of the skin, inflammation and sometimes pain. It is usually most concentrated on the hands, face and legs but can occur on any part of the skin.
Medical Treatments and Home Remedies
Dry skin is controlled by some medical procedures and home remedies. Here are some effective strategies:
- Moisturizers: Opt for creams that are heavy, that contain elements such as glycerin, acid hyaluronic, and ceramide. These ingredients contribute to the skins moisturizing and the skin barrier reconstruction processes. Remember always to apply the moisturizer right after you have bathed so that the skin can be locked in.
- Hydrocortisone Cream: For dry, itchy or inflamed skin, first degree, hydrocortisone cream bought from the counter will be useful. Use it gently by rubbing it to the skin that has been infected.
- Humidifiers: Bring an air humidifier at home so that it will provide moisture in the air which is not appropriate for our skin.
- Gentle Cleansing: Take care not to use overly strong, scented products that will remove the skin’s essential oils. Do not use hot water and try to take lukewarm water baths or showers.
- Protective Clothing: When going out, do not forget to wear gloves, scarves and hats for your skin will be exposed to cold wind.
- Oatmeal Baths: Including colloidal oatmeal in your bath helps to relieve dryness and itching of the skin.
Eczema
Triggers and Prevention
Atopic dermatitis or commonly known as eczema, is a long-term skin condition that worsens in winter. Possible causes include lack of humidity, low temperatures, stress, and dust, mold, and animal hair. Some people suffer flare-ups, and to reduce the risk of having them, one should avoid the causes as much as possible.
Prevention strategies include:
- Regular Moisturizing: Apply multi-nutrient free from any type of odor regularly to keep the skin moist and to avoid the problem of dryness. Use the moisturizers right after you have bathed so that it can seal in the moisture.
- Humidifiers: The skin should not dry up and this can be managed by using a humidifier to ensure that indoor humidity is at the right level.
- Avoid Irritants: Use mild and preferably hypoallergenic skincare products and washing powders. Do not wear fabrics that would cause friction such as wool on the skin.
- Stress Management: Learn stress-reducing exercise like yoga, meditation or deep breathing to prevent flare up of the skin condition.
