Coping with the Dry Skin Problems
January 24, 2009
When the sebaceous (oil-secreting) glands in the skin fail to produce enough oil (known as sebum) to protect the skin from atmospheric conditions, the skin becomes dry, flaky and sometimes sore. Following simple rules for skin care and choosing from a range of natural formulas and other treatments generally alleviate the problems.
You may have dry skin because your sebaceous glands are relatively inactive. This could be an inherited tendency, the result of a temporary hormonal imbalance (as during pregnancy) or a nutritional deficiency. The skin also tends to become drier with increasing age.
Extremes of temperature and strong winds deplete moisture from the skin. The hands, feet and elbows are particularly vulnerable, since they have relatively few sebaceous glands, and the face and neck are also readily affected because they are usually exposed to the environment. Dry skin may also result from such conditions as eczema, psoriasis and nappy rash, as well as from dehydration caused by low fluid intake.
In order to prevent dry skin use a high-factor sunscreen outdoors, wear warm socks and gloves in cold weather, and apply lip balm and moisturizer regularly. Indoors, keep the temperature comfortable cool. Turn down heaters by the day, wear extra clothing instead.
Air conditioning, heating, and electrical appliances, including TVs and computers, increase the air’s concentration of positive ions, which have a drying effect on the skin and remove moisture from the air. Reduce the positive ion count by keeping a window open, humidifying the air (by using a humidifier or placing bowls of water in a safe place near heaters) and introducing house plants.
Avoid sleeping with an electric blanket. Dry skin can also be prevented by exercising regularly to improve the circulation of blood and ensuring that your skin is supplied with plenty of nutrients and oxygen.
Dry skin can be treated by some herbal remedies. The best one of them is taking a course of evening primrose oil, which contains essential fatty acids. You can also apply Aloe Vera gel to rough skin to improve condition. Aloe Vera gel is an excellent emollient.
Even chickweed has soothing properties. Soak a clean cloth in a strong infusion or decoction of cooled chickweed tea. After wringing excess liquid from the cloth, wrap it around the affected area.
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