How To Treat Dry Skin On The Face?

To combat skin problems, it is not only necessary to apply a moisturizer. Attention must be paid to other details for the treatment to be effective. Know what they are.

Having dry skin on the face (xerosis) is a problem that can occur at any time, and it is not always solved by applying just any facial cream. Many times, it involves a series of measures and habits for the treatment to be effective.

Some external factors, such as a change in temperature, can make it dry. However, when this condition persists, it is important to know how to treat it to avoid further discomfort and, above all, the appearance of the signs of aging. Next, we discuss what are the considerations that must be taken into account to have a more hydrated skin.

Dry skin of the face, what can you do to treat it?

The first thing is to understand why this problem originates. Xerosis appears when moisture is lost in the skin. This is characterized by roughness to the touch and a feeling of rigidity when moving the facial muscles. In more extreme cases, peeling, cracking, and even itching can be seen.

As for the most common causes of dry skin, a publication from the Mayo Clinic indicates that this condition usually occurs for environmental reasons that can significantly affect the skin. However, there are other factors such as the following:

• Cold climates.
• Any appliance that emits heat and reduces humidity in the environment, such as heaters and fireplaces.
• Take hot baths and showers for long periods of time.
• Swimming frequently and being exposed to chlorine in swimming pools.
• Abrasive soaps and detergents.
• Other skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) or psoriasis.

To provide a correct treatment for this condition, it is essential to avoid all those products that are potentially irritating ; that is to say, those that contain perfumes and colorants. In addition to this, it is necessary to include a series of practices in the daily routine. Know what they are.

1. Moisturize the skin daily

In stores you can get creams according to your condition. Remember that it is necessary to apply it every day and, if possible, several times. There’s no use putting on a thick layer of moisturizer today and then forgetting about it until next week. It is essential to use it, at least, in the morning and at night.

To remind yourself, leave the pot on the bedside table or in the bathroom. Also, to increase the level of hydration, it would be good if you apply the cream after washing your face or bathing, that is, when it is still wet. Do not forget that light strokes are always better to apply the product, thus avoiding irritating the area.

2. Use gentle scrubs

If within your beauty routine you have the habit of exfoliating your skin from time to time to help remove the layer of dead skin cells and unclog pores without damaging the skin, it is best to use gentle exfoliants and preferably , that are natural, like oats.

3. Wash your face with lukewarm water

When you return from work or exercise, when you get up in the morning or when you go to bed, don’t forget to wash your face with lukewarm water. This measure should also be applied when showering or bathing.

Remember that hot water is not a good option because it deprives the skin of its natural oils. If you use the water at a high temperature in winter, avoid wetting your face. At the end, refresh your skin with a little warm water.

4. Gently dry the skin

When you finish bathing or washing your face, the ideal is to let the skin of the face dry on its own or give light touches with the towel, without scrubbing or making any type of vigorous movement. Also, it is recommended that the towel be made of soft cotton.

5. Drink water

Although topical hydration is necessary, it is essential to keep the body well hydrated. As a University of Wisconsin Health publication indicates , drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day will help flush toxins from the body and skin. This will restore your natural shine and make you look healthier.

6. Eat healthy

Just as water helps to hydrate the body, raw fruits and vegetables too. In addition, they provide many nutrients and vitamins that contribute to overall good health. Try to include in your diet 2 pieces of fruit and 2 servings of vegetables a day.

According to another article from the Mayo Clinic, it appears that foods rich in antioxidants have a protective effect on the skin. Therefore, consider incorporating the following into your diet:

• Carrots, apricots, and other yellow and orange fruits and vegetables
• Spinach and other leafy greens
• Tomatoes
• Berries
• Beans, peas, and lentils
• Salmon, mackerel and other fatty fish
• Walnuts

7. Give up cigarettes and alcohol

It is well known that both tobacco and alcohol have innumerable harmful effects on the health and appearance of the skin. The cigarette contains tar and nicotine, two substances that prevent good oxygenation of the skin. When cells are deprived of oxygen, it causes clogged pores and dryness.

On the other hand, a study published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology points out that there is a clear link between premature facial aging, cigarette smoking and excessive alcohol intake.

When to see a dermatologist?

In addition to taking into account the measures mentioned, it is necessary to pay attention to the different changes that can occur in dry skin. If you notice redness in the area, itching or open wounds, it is best to go to the dermatologist to properly treat this problem and get healthy skin again.