Dry Skin

Dry skin (scaly or flaking) tends to be sensitive skin, especially during the harsh conditions in the wintertime months. It may or may not be itchy. See the Dry Winter Skin page for skincare tips in winter. The elderly will most likely have drier skin, as skin loses its ability to hold moisture in the golden years. If any redness is present, you may be experiencing a form of dermatitis (skin inflammation).

As far as bathing dry skin, it's best to take very short, warm showers. Yes, I said warm, not hot! Replace your existing shower head with a shower filter to get rid of skin-drying chemicals found in water and pipes. Use very mild soap, try for one with a moisturizer built in and no scrubbing allowed! When you get out of the shower, gently pat your skin dry - no rubbing. Immediately apply a moisturizer so your skin is better able to retain the moisture. Concentrate on the shins and lower legs as skin tends to be the driest there. My shins tend to get very dry, as does my upper back.

Run a humidifer to help relieve the dry skin condition. In winter, this can also help keep your heating bills low. If you travel by plane, be advised that air in the cabin of an airplane is usually very dry, so prepare accordingly.

Do what you can to prevent dry skin from becoming a problem, because it can lead to inflammation and possibly even infection. Be sure that you are drinking enough plain water each day. Don't lick chapped lips because that will only make the problem worse. Ease up on the alcohol and caffeine as those items can really dehydrate your skin. Finally, don't spend too much time in the sun as that can dry your skin and lead to sunburn and/or skin cancers.

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