Dry skin

by Geir Ness

Here are some tips that I have for those of you with dry skin. That will include most of us, especially when we have cold dry winters.

Try to avoid using tap water when cleansing dry skin. And never use very hot water to freshen your face, or a rough texture washcloth than can irritate your skin.

Washing dry skin with soap and water not only removes grime, but also the natural oils protecting the skin.

Some drugs that you take can also contribute to dry skin.

Use non detergent, neutral-ph products to cleanse your skin. Touch your face gently.

If you don't have a good moisturizer on your face on a cold windy day stay inside!!!! Cold will cause any moisture on your skin to evaporate, and the wind will just accelerate the process.

At night use a creamy cleanser or oil. Baby oil can actually be very good for your skin. Remove residue with a spray of mineral water, then put on a night cream, but do that at least 15-20 minutes before you lie down. If you lie down immediately after applying cream, it will “puff-up" the delicate tissues around your eyes

Keep any chapped or cracked areas well lubricated.

For cracked dry skin on the fingers use calendula cream or oil with comfrey, vitamin E oil and aloe vera. Apply the mixture to hands at bedtime, and wear a plastic glove overnight. Check with your pharmacy on what gloves will be good.

Don't smoke!!!! Smoking has a harmful effect on the skin. Nicotine constricts the blood vessels, including the tiny capillaries that serve the skin. It can also make the skin dry and leathery.

Stay out of the sun, and always use sun protection. Sun can cause everything from cancer to dryness, wrinkles and even rashes and blisters. I can go on and on, just be careful.

I believe in anything with "some" moderation.    

And be sure to use flax oil. I will tell you more about the benefit of it next time.

If you have tried Flax oil or are using it, let me know and I will try to put your comments on also.

But please, enjoy the winter and have fun!!!!

Geir :-)