Suffering from dry skin?! 5 things to stop doing to relieve dry skin. 

Let's talk dry skin. Your skin is your largest organ, your body's interface with and protection from the environment. Keep it moisturized and intact! I trained in a dermatology office as a physician assistant student. Dry skin was a common complaint. Many clients were shocked at the advice they were given: "I paid a specialist copay for this?!" was a common sentiment. Relieve dry skin by stopping these 5 things, and you may save yourself a trip to the doctor's office!

1. Bathing Frequently 

Water exposure can be drying and irritating. Reevaluate how many times you are bathing, and for how long. Consider decreasing the overall amount of time you are immersed in water. 

2. Bathing in hot water

Hot water is especially drying. In addition to the amount of time you spend in water, consider lowering the temperature of the water. Check out this article that says ideal water temperature is between 98 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. There are shower heads and rubber ducks that measure water temperature (commissions earned)! 

3. Using washcloths

Washcloths, loofahs and the like are somewhat abrasive. Consider ditching them and using only your clean hands to wash your body. 

4. Using soap

I know, I know. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard clients say that they just don’t feel clean if they’re not using soap. Hear me out. If you’re not overtly soiled from, gee idk, mud wrestling - then consider limiting soap. If you have supple skin, I don’t care what you do! But if you’re reading this, you may be suffering from dry, irritated, itchy skin. Clean hands and warm water should be adequate for the majority of the body. Soap can be used underarms and around genitalia. And opt for a gentle, fragrance-free soap such as Dove (commissions earned).

5. Skipping moisturizer

Look, I get it. As a busy mom, bathing can seem like a chore at times, especially if you’re doing all of the things: shaving everything, detangling and washing hair, exfoliating rough and bumpy areas. But do not skip moisturizer! If you’re getting wet, then you should be applying moisturizer! Washing yourself and not moisturizing is like dining out and not tipping - just don’t do it! Apply lotion such as Aveeno. And if you’re particularly dry, use Vaseline or Aquaphor to really lock in moisture from your shower or bath, and create a protective barrier for your skin (commissions earned). 

There are many conditions affecting the skin. If skin dryness persists, consult a medical professional. You may require more targeted treatment and/or prescription remedies. 

Are you considering changing your routine after reading this? Let me know in the comments! 

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