How can i fix my dry skin?

Humectants: A humectant is a substance which helps promote retention of moisture. Some examples of humectants found in otc products are alpha-hydroxy acid (aha) or glycolic acid or lactic acid, beta-hydroxy acid (bha) or salicylic acid, or urea. Combine humectants with moisturizers such as bees wax, petrolatum, cocoa butter, olive oil, mineral oil.

Avoid over-washing: A daily moisturizing cream used 2-4 times a day helps to heal dry skin and to prevent return of the dry rash. Examples: cetaphil, cerave, eucerin. Some people avoid creams with lanolin, aloe, or fragrances because they are sensitive to the ingredients. If the skin is a bit reddened, is getting itchier, or is roughed up by scratching, one can add Hydrocortisone 1% cream twice a day for 5-10 days.

Hydration #1: Staying well hydrated can make an immediate difference in the dryness of your skin. Beyond that - try a deep night-time treatment for a few days with a petroleum gel like aquaphor. Avoid harsh soaps and cleansers. When possible humidify the air. Hope this helps!

A different approach: Moisturizers are fine when there is a real need, winter heaters, summer sun. However much dryness actually results from overuse of otc moisturizers which trap dead stratum corneum to the surface and don't allow for new, well-hydrated skin to surface. Good exfoliation is super important to promote healthy skin. Sounds wrong, but it works and you'll look better and more refreshed! drink water too.

Protect: Avoid things that make you break out, soaps & wetness. Wash your hands only when necessary. Wear gloves when needed. Wear clothes made of cotton. Bathe only with a small amount of mild unscented soap, such as dove. Keep the water temperature cool or warm, not hot! use the medicine your doctor gave you. Use a plain moisturizer daily. Avoid scratching or rubbing the itchy area. Manage stress.

Dryness?: If you tried other humectants with no relieve, then try petroleum jelly or plain vaseline as lubricant . Also take vitamin a in pill form. Follow the other dr. Recommendations: use dove ( as substitute for soap), do not shower more than once a day. Check your medicines causing dryness. Check for allergies to synthetic clothes, etc. Worst? Go to dermatologist.

Have you ever tried : Amlactin 12%? The skin is composed of several layers. Most moisturizers just sit on the sueface because they need to have an acid to penetrate where the dryness occurs. If you can do that, the skin will be heathy from the inside out! you might have to ask the pharmacist for it. Used to be a prescription. Not the best smelling stuff in the world but works like a charm.