This month is the month to focus on improving your skin! Your skin is the largest organ on your body, yet many people forget how vital skin health and care really is. Dry skin is the most common form of neglected skin that dermatologists see, so let’s discuss a few quick tips you can try to treat your dry skin.

Baths and Showers

It might be tempting to take a scalding hot tub or shower to relax, but your skin would disagree. You should take warm baths and showers, not hot ones. The hot water will quickly dry out your skin. Avoid staying in the tub or shower too long, no matter how beautiful it might feel!

Moisturize!

After you get out of the bath or shower, you should gently pat your skin dry. Then, apply a moisturizer before getting dressed. If you suffer from unusually dry skin, a thicker cream or ointment is better than a traditional lotion. Heavily fragranced lotions may be tempting, but you should avoid using them every day.

Wet Air

During the winter months, dry skin often becomes worse. You should invest in a humidifier to keep in your home and run it while you sleep, or during the day if you’re home. The moist air will prevent your skin from drying out in the harsh weather.

Be Gentle with Your Skin

The fabrics you wear may not feel too harsh at first, but with time they can really take a toll on your skin. Wear soft cotton clothing on your skin as much as possible. If you have to wear a harsh fabric like wool, wear something cotton underneath to protect your skin.

Handwashing

Handwashing is a meaningful way to prevent the spread of bacteria and illnesses, but it will quickly dry out your hands. Don’t let dry hands stop you from handwashing as often as you should though. The disease is much more severe than dry skin! Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often and thoroughly dry your skin afterward. Apply thick hand cream after washing to prevent skin cracking and extreme dryness. If your skin is still dry despite the hand cream, petroleum jelly can be used before bed or throughout the day to treat unusually dry spots. Remember, scented lotions may smell nice, but they don’t offer the relief that your skin needs!