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No More Dry Skin

by Susie Michelle Cortright    

Over the years, we have found the best defense in the war against chapping, chafing, and cracking. 

As the air gets colder and drier, skin loses its natural moisture. During this cold and flu season, we fight germs by frequent hand washing, which further dries the skin. Wind and sun exposure add to the effect, and going indoors doesn't help much. The hot, dry air blasting us in cars, homes, and buildings packs a double punch. 

Take Care from the Inside Out

Hydrate yourself. Next week, we'll focus more on the health benefits of water. For now, strive to drink at least 64-ounces of water each day. 

Some tips to get down eight 8-ounce glasses: 

Carry a water bottle everywhere you go. I have a 32-ounce plastic container with a built-in straw. When I have it with me, I drink a lot more water. Some days, I have to fill it three or four times.  

Liven up ordinary water with a splash of lime or lemon juice. 

Purchase an inexpensive water filter, such as the Brita water filtration pitcher. For about $20, you can enjoy great tasting water all the time. Plus, when you have cold, refreshing water ready in the fridge, you'll be more likely to pour yourself a glass. 

The Body

Humidify the air. If you don't have a humidifier, purchase one for $20 to $30. Just make sure to clean it regularly.  

Bathe or shower in lukewarm water. A hot, steamy shower may warm you up, but it can also dry your skin. 

If your skin is very dry, avoid soap. Opt for a hydrating soapless cleanser, such as Cetaphil, or an unscented body oil.  Since shaving products can dry your skin, try a body oil instead. 

Instead of toweling off, let the moisture from your bath or shower absorb into your skin. Then apply your favorite body oil or moisturizer. Check to see if your moisturizer contains vitamins A, D, and E, which help your skin retain moisture. Reapply your body lotion throughout the day if your skin feels dry or itchy. 

Apply a sunscreen to any part of your body that will be exposed. Snow reflects the rays, so winter sun can pack a double punch. 

The Face

Winter rays can be particularly damaging to the face, so don't forget the facial sunscreen. Either apply a separate product, or find a facial moisturizer with sunscreen. 

If your normal facial regimen is no longer taking care of those dry spots, consider a supplement. Make sure you are using a hydrating cleanser. You might need to tweak your regimen during the winter months. 

Go easy on skin irritants, such as alpha hydroxy acids, masks, and scrubs. Opt for a mild mask and reduce your use of AHA products.

Women with oily skin must be careful with moisturizers and steer clear of products containing lanolin or mineral oil. These ingredients clog pores and may cause breakouts.  

Hands and feet

Margy Brown, a Wyoming ranch wife, has developed the single best hand cream I have ever used. Cross A Ranch Beeswax Hand Cream contains vitamins A, D, and E, as well as lanolin, beeswax, and aloe vera gel. Apply hand cream each time you wash your hands. 

Liquid, antibacterial soap can be very drying. Substitute a mild, moisturizing hand cleanser.  

Your hands will thank you if you wear rubber gloves when using harsh cleansers around the house and during daily dish duty. 

For your feet, apply a thick lotion, and slip on some socks while you sleep.


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Susie Michelle Cortright is the author of several books for women, including Rekindling Your Romance After Kids, and founder of the award-winning Momscape.com, a website designed to help busy women find balance. Visit http://www.momscape.com today and get Susie's *free* courses-by-email "6 Days to Less Stress" and "Rekindling Your Romance After Kids."