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Home > Select a Medical Service > Dermatology

Dry Skin Care


Dry Skin facts

  • Dry skin not only can be unsightly, but also itchy and cause more complex skin conditions such as eczema.
  • Our skin looses its ability to maintain water as we get older, and therefore becomes more dry.
  • Keeping your skin well moisturized helps to make it a better barrier, protecting you from skin irritants, allergens and infections.

Dry Skin Care

  • Bathe (bath or shower) no more than once a day with lukewarm water. Steamy hot water is very hard on the skin surface and strips off natural oils and protection.
  • Use mild soap, such as unscented Dove, Cetaphil, Aveeno. Deoderant soaps and Ivory are the most irritating soaps.
  • Immediately after bathing, towel off, and apply a moisturizer. Do this before opening the bathroom door and allowing the moist air to leave the room.
  • The best moisturizers seal in the moisture. You are trying to prevent "evaporation" of water by creating a seal for your skin. Some suggestions are: petroleum jelly, Aquaphor, Eurcerin cream or Cetaphil cream.
  • Rub the moisturizer in your hands, and then rub your hands over the skin surface. With practice, you will be able to apply a thin layer which does not feel greasy and will not stain your clothes. At first, you may need to wipe off the excess with a cloth.
  • In order for a moisturizer to benefit your skin….you must apply it!
   

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