Dry skin is a problem that almost everyone faces, either occasionally or chronically. Regular moisturizing is the best way to prevent dry skin. Effective skin moisturizing methods are centered on retaining the skin's natural oils. The skin is the largest organ in humans, so keep it clean to stay healthy.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Choosing a Skin Moisturizer
Step 1. Determine your skin type
You need to know this before choosing the right moisturizer. The trick, first wash and dry your face and then wait an hour. Then, pay attention to how dry or oily your face is. The complete guide is here.
Step 2. Find the right moisturizer
After knowing your skin type, determine the basic category of your skin. Most skin falls into the category of 'oily' to 'dry', while 'normal' is somewhere in between. The other two categories are 'sensitive' and 'adult.'
- Moisturizers for dry skin are generally petroleum-based or oil-based.
- Oily skin needs a water-based moisturizer. This moisturizer should also be non-comedogenic to prevent clogging of pores.
- Normal skin also needs a water-based moisturizer, but it also contains a small amount of oil.
- Sensitive skin needs a moisturizer with medicinal or sedative properties. Look for moisturizers that contain chamomile or aloe, but don't use moisturizers with fragrances, dyes, or acids.
- For older, mature skin, look for a petroleum-based moisturizer that is rich in oil. There are many moisturizers designed for mature skin that contain anti-wrinkle ingredients.
Step 3. Consider seeing a dermatologist (dermatologist) for a prescription, especially for people with chronic dry skin
A person's skin type can fall into a combination of two skin categories, and this is quite common. Your dermatologist will be able to prescribe a moisturizer specially formulated for your skin. Your doctor will also be able to suggest additional treatments for your skin.
Part 2 of 3: Caring for Dry Skin
Step 1. Check if you have dry skin
Does your skin feel tight, cracked, itchy, or rough after a shower? For people who have light skin, does the skin look a little red? For those with dark skin, does the skin look gray or pale? If the answer is yes, look for a moisturizer to restore the skin's natural oils.
Step 2. Try not to overdry your skin after bathing
Close the door to keep the bathroom moist, and take a quick shower at a lower temperature than usual. Don't blow your skin because it will dry out more. Use a towel, but don't rub it. Just pat the towel against the skin. Continue to apply moisturizer all over the skin.
Step 3. Apply lip balm if needed
It is recommended to use lip balm regularly, especially for owners of dry skin. Don't lick your lips as this will make the problem worse. Many lip balms also contain anti-ultraviolet ingredients to protect the skin. If lip balm products cause side effects such as swelling, burning sensation, or redness, replace them with other products.
Step 4. Avoid using regular skin care products unless specially formulated for delicate skin
Some examples of harsh skin care products are aftershave products, or colognes containing alcohol or alpha-hydroxy acids, and deodorant soaps. While the skin can fight the side effects of these products, prevention is better than cure. You may also need to use a special detergent for delicate skin, at least during periods of dry skin care.
Step 5. Wear gloves if the skin on your hands is dry
This is important, especially in winter where it is windy and the temperature is near zero. Wear gloves made of rubber or other similar material when washing dishes, as hot water and soap aggravate dry skin. Also make sure you use a moisturizing lotion or cream on your hands to treat dry skin.
Step 6. Stay away from heat sources and use a humidifier during treatment
Prolonged exposure to dry heat will quickly dry out the skin. While a campfire in cold temperatures is great fun, try not to get too close to a dry heat source as this can make dry skin worse. When indoors, try to use a humidifier to keep the air moist.
Part 3 of 3: Keeping Skin Healthy
Step 1. Find a soap that suits your skin type
Good soap products usually contain essential oils, for example: coconut oil, olive oil and jojoba oil which can retain skin moisture. If possible, visit a store that specializes in natural products or seek advice from a dermatologist. Stay away from cleansers that contain alcohol as they strip away the skin's natural oils.
Step 2. Dry your body properly after bathing
While it may seem impossible, bathing can dry out the skin, unless precautions are taken beforehand. Methods for treating dry skin include drying yourself by patting a towel against your skin. After that, apply moisturizer to areas of skin that are prone to dryness or exposed to open air, such as hands and face.
Step 3. Shave healthily
For men, wet your face with a special moisturizer or wet towel before shaving. Do not use post-shave ointments or lotions that contain alcohol, as these will dry out the skin. If you want to shave your legs, make sure you use a moisturizing cleanser to prep.
Step 4. Keep hand and body moisturizer in your bag
Don't forget, these products are usually quite different from each other. depending on your location in the world, some moisturizers may contain a high SPF to protect your skin from the sun and Ultraviolet. Plus, you'll always be able to moisturize your hands after you're done washing them.
Step 5. Create a skin care routine and stick to it
Don't forget, prevention is the best way to treat dry skin. Make sure you practice healthy skin even on the go. Having a routine will also get you into the habit of healthy behavior without paying special attention to your skin.
Step 6. Change your lifestyle to benefit your skin
There are several lifestyle choices that will help keep your skin healthy and moisturized. Among them:
- Drink water every day. Drink at least 2.2 liters of water every day. (for women) and 3 liters (for men).
- Quit smoking. Smoking will make the skin age quickly so that wrinkles will come more quickly. The only way to prevent it is to stop smoking.
Tips
- Choose a cream made from natural oils. This way, the skin can retain moisture more easily when things that dry out the skin unavoidably happen.
- Even when your skin is healthy, don't take hot showers. This will immediately erode the skin's natural oils and damage the epidermis.
- Seasonal changes have a major impact on dryness and oil production in the skin. Moisturizer does not need to be used too much in the dry season, but continue the routine to maintain healthy skin. Make sure you pay special attention to the skin in winter.
Warning
- Be wary of skin care products sold on the internet, and make sure you know where these products come from.
- People with severe and chronic dry skin should be examined by a dermatologist or medical professional.
- Even after you have found the optimal skin moisturizer or other product, do some testing first. Apply moisturizer to a small area of the skin on the upper arm and make sure there are no side effects, such as rash or dryness.
