Dry skin, medically termed 'xerosis', occurs when the lipids (fatty substances) that keep skin pliant and soft are reduced to low levels. This condition is experienced by a large proportion of people; in the US, for example, an estimated 100 million people suffer from excessive dryness, which can include eczema and psoriasis.
Those of us with chronically dry skin know the symptoms all too well: extreme itchiness, often leading to excessive scratching which breaks the skin (increasing chances dermatitis and of harmful bacteria getting through); tightness of skin that can be very discomfiting; fine lines and flakiness that can be embarrassing, especially for people with darker complexions.
A variety of factors lead to the reduction of skin lipids: environmental conditions (toxins and low humidity, for example), medical conditions (such as malnutrition, hyperthyroidism, diabetes), genetic disposition and lifestyle choices; this latter category including how much time we spend in hot showers, what type of soap we use (antibacterial and deodorant soaps leech oils from the skin), our nutritional intake and how much water we drink.
Unless dry skin is caused by a severe genetic or medical condition-more serious causes requiring medication and more intensive treatment-a simple long-term treatment involves keeping your skin clean, applying a proper moisturizer on your skin after bathing or showering, and drinking clean water on a regular basis.
When delving through the vast array of moisturizers it's good to keep in mind that ultimately what makes a moisturizer effective is the extent to which the helpful ingredients are transferred to, and absorbed by, the skin. When searching for moisturizers, look for those which contain 'carrier' substances such as natural oils (almond, apricot, grape-seed, jojoba, olive, coconut, aloe vera to name a few). Avoid products that use mineral oil, as this substance-derived from crude oil- makes skin drier. When possible, use paraben-free products, which tend to be more expensive but are better for long-term usage.
Dry skin is an often annoying, uncomfortable condition experienced by a large percentage of people, across the globe. Fortunately we have never before enjoyed such a wide range of treatment options to help us go about our daily lives in greater comfort and with greater confidence in our appearance.
Regardless of the many options for skin care, for the majority of us the most effective and inexpensive method of deterring dryness, while enhancing and maintaining supple skin, involves drinking clean water on a regular basis and getting regular exercise, which opens pores and flushes harmful toxins from our bodies.
As always, the best advice for those with dry skin or any other physical condition of concern is to visit a dermatologist and/or doctor for individual analysis and medical assessment.
About the Author: Marci's interests include beauty, fashion, make up, online shopping and answering questions about the human need for and attraction to beautiful things and beautiful people.Her article topics also include health and wellness, beauty and fashion. She also works as a consultant offering coaching for persons seeking beauty makeovers and life changes. For more information about, beauty, health and you, please visit: http://www.YourHairandBeautyStore.com
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