How Can I Deal with Dry Facial Skin?

Combating dry facial skin can be extremely difficult and frustrating if the proper steps are not taken. Discovering the causes of dry facial skin and the best way to treat the problem can be a trial and error process. Basic treatment for dry skin includes using moisturizers on a daily basis and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. Drinking plenty of water, exercising, and protecting skin from the sun are all methods to prevent dry skin.

The many causes of dry facial skin include weather, illness, food, medications, too much sun, and excessive amounts of hot water. Dry facial skin is characterized by blotchy or patchy redness, scaling, chapping, itchiness, or open wounds. If simple treatment methods, such as applying moisturizer and properly cleaning the face, do not improve dry facial skin, it may be necessary to seek professional help from a dermatologist.

If treating at home, you should use a mild cleanser that doesn't contain any alcohol or harsh detergents. The face should be washed with warm, not hot, water, and patted dry instead of rubbed dry. After the face is cleansed, facial moisturizer should be applied. Facial lotions can be applied throughout the day, and it is preferable to use lotions and moisturizers that do not contain fragrance.

Drinking plenty of water will help to add moisture to the skin. It is also important to follow a healthy diet, get plenty of exercise, get ample sleep, and keep properly hydrated. Smoking, hot showers, excessive sun exposure, and age are all factors for dry facial skin.

Extenuating circumstances can make dry facial skin difficult to control. Sunburn and windburn due to prolonged working hours outside can be lessened by using a good sunscreen with a high UV factor. Some types of illnesses and certain medications may lead to dry skin. In these instances, a dermatologist or other medical professional may be able to provide some assistance and advice for relieving dry skin.

It is important that children are taught at a young age how to properly take care of their skin. Drinking water throughout the day, using sunscreen when outside, and maintaining good eating habits can go a long way towards maintaining healthy and hydrated skin. Children should also be informed of the results of alcohol or smoking on the skin. Setting a good example for young people may make dry skin less of an issue for them when they get older.