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eNEWSLETTERS

The Winter Enemy- Dry Skin

Dry skin can be so frustrating, especially during the winter months. The good news is that dry skin is a very common skin problem during the winter due to low humidity in the air. According to Barney Kenet, MD, there are close to 100 million American’s suffering from dry skin right now.

Common facts:

Dry skin occurs at all ages.
Dry skin occurs in people with or without other skin problems.
Dry skin occurs most commonly on the arms and legs.
Dermatologists refer to dry skin usually as “xerosis” or “asteatosis”.

Dry Skin Profile

Fine lines in the skin usually become more visible.
The skin feels rough, and appears dull and/or flaky.
In extreme cases, fish-net like cracks resemble the fine fracture lines.

Health Issues with Dry Skin
With dry skin comes the irritating itch. It is important to remember that the more you scratch your skin the more of a chance you will have at making it irritated. Once the skin is irritated, it could produce painful cracks, which could then lead to an infection.
Dry skin and scratching could result in a dermatitis, the skin becomes red (inflamed) in addition to being dry and scaly. The appearance of yellow crusts or pus indicates that a bacterial infection is forming. You should then seek antibiotic treatments from your dermatologist of doctor.

What Causes Dry Skin?
Dry skin is the result of not having enough moisturizer in the top layer of skin (stratum corneum).
The Different Causes;

Hot water.
Too much soapy water.
Harsh chemicals.
Normal aging process.
Certain types of skin diseases.
Decreased amount of protective skin oils.

How to Treat Dry Skin

Do not take extremely hot showers.
Take short showers. No longer than 10 minutes.
Shower once in 24 hours.
It is better for adults to take showers rather than baths.
Soaps should be used moderately and only where necessary (under arms, the groins and genitals, the feet, and the face).
Use a milder soap;

Dove, Neutrogena Dry Skin Formula, Aveeno Cleansing Bar for Dry Skin

After bathing or showering, gently pat down your skin with a towel, do not rub!
Apply a protective moisturizer to the skin three minutes after showering in order to trap in needed water. Why three minutes? It will evaporate quickly.

Managing Dry SkinIf you see your dry skin starting to clear up, don’t stop using these steps and don’t forget the sunscreen! Use at least an SPF 15 on your skin every day!

Keep your skin healthy and moisturized year round my friends!
Sources:
http://www.uihealthcare.com/topics/skinhealth/winterskin.html
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/features/dry-skin-causes

Missouri