Help for Those with the Dry Skin Blues

by Helen Hecker R.N.

The good news is that today, there are several types of treatments to choose from for your dry skin. As we age, our skin produces less of the natural oil that helps it retain its moisture. Symptoms most associated with Xeroderma (dry skin) are scaling, which is the visible peeling of the outer skin layer, itching and cracks in the skin.

Skin is considered one of the most important parts of the body. Skin contains the hair follicles, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, apocrine glands and blood vessels. The average square inch of skin holds 650 sweat glands, 20 blood vessels, 60,000 melanocytes, and more than a thousand nerve endings.

The dermis is tightly connected to the epidermis by a basement membrane. The dermis is structurally divided into two areas: a superficial area adjacent to the epidermis, called the papillary region, and a deep thicker area known as the reticular region. Epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin.

Bathing or showering too frequently, especially if one is using harsh soaps, may also contribute to xeroderma. Dry skin is common. Dry skin could also be a sign of an underactive thyroid. Certain drugs, including diuretics, antispasmodics, and antihistamines, can contribute to dry skin.

For any skin condition, it's always better to take a natural approach. Use as little soap as possible limiting its use to armpits and genitals. Dry your skin gently and thoroughly, patting not rubbing.

Good skin is often a reflection of a good digestive system. The two most common, sluggish, digestion culprits that affect your skin are not enough water and not enough fiber. For an easy fiber boost, mix in 2 tablespoons of ground up flaxseeds in raw applesauce, from 2-3 apples, made in your food processor.

Consider taking cod liver oil or fish oil supplements every day. Concentrating on a diet of LOTS of fruits and vegetables (preferably uncooked) and no junk food, should give you an observable improvement within 30 days.

The best treatment I've found for dry skin is coconut oil. Coconut oil is very inexpensive, therefore, a good, cheap home remedy. Apply coconut oil to heal and soothe your skin. Apply a thin layer of coconut oil and massage it deep into the skin.

Functions of the skin are disturbed when it is dirty; it becomes more easily damaged, the release of antibacterial compounds decreases and dirty skin is more prone to develop infections. Dry skin can be converted into healthy skin using natural home remedies. Sunlight, water and air play an important role in keeping the skin healthy. 

See your doctor or naturopathic doctor if your skin doesn't improve in spite of your best efforts. Make sure to call your dermatologist when you have any open cuts or sores from scratching that won't heal. If you're still worried, or the problems persist, go and see your doctor.

copyright©2007 Helen Hecker All rights reserved.