Eliminating Skin Problems

Dry skin can be just as unpleasant as oily skin. It can become red and irritated, or it may simply be a peeling, flaky mess. Dry skin can also make you look older, since it tends to be dull and it accentuates wrinkles. Fortunately, there are ways to combat dry skin and look your best. These tips can help.

Tip #1: Stay Hydrated

The human body is more than 60 percent water, so even slight dehydration can have a major effect on your skin. Some of the first signs of mild dehydration may be chapped lips or dry patches on exposed areas, such as elbows or cheeks. Increasing your water consumption can help combat dehydration. If you have trouble keeping up with water consumption, try drinking a large class of water before each meal. This should give you about half of your daily water needs. Then, strive to drink water instead of other beverages throughout the rest of the day.

Tip #2: Use the Right Cleanser

Select a product that is made for dry skin. Private label cleansers that contain moisture extracts, such as coconut oil, lanolin, aloe, or nut oils, are an excellent choice for most dry skin issues because they help balance out the drying that occurs during the course of washing. If you have sensitive skin, you should test new cleansers on a patch of skin first to make sure they don't cause irritation.

Tip #3: Wash Less Often

Although it seems counter-intuitive, water can dry out your skin more quickly. This is especially true in winter when wet skin can become chapped in cold temperatures. You can counteract this by limiting water exposure. Wash your face in the evening to remove makeup and the day's dirt, for example. Then, in the morning you can just use a moisturizer before beginning your makeup routine. When washing, use warm water and your dry skin product. Follow with a splash of cool water. This closes the pores and traps the moisture in your skin.

Tip #4: Don't Overlook Moisturizers

Oil-free moisturizers do very little to offset dry skin. Instead, use a private label skin care moisturizer that contains mineral oil, jojoba oil, or lanolin. These are sometimes labeled as cream moisturizers because they are thicker and creamier than their less moisturizing counterparts. Also, don't be afraid to mix and match moisturizers. It isn't uncommon to have some patches of dry skin and some of oily skin. You can use the cream moisturizers on your cheeks and hands if they are dry, while opting for a lighter option on your chest and forehead, if these areas tend to be more oily.