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April 11, 2014

Fit Facts: Shedding Sweaters and Dry Skin

Ready to shed your winter wardrobe, but afraid to show your dry, scaly skin? Allergies, overheated indoor air, or simply growing older can make your skin feel dry. A home humidifier may help. So can a change in your daily activities.

Curb your baths or showers to 10 minutes or less and use cooler water. Choose a mild soap, and use it sparingly. Keep drinking plenty of water, too. After bathing, pat, don’t rub your body with a soft towel. Before your skin is completely dry, slather on some moisturizer. Choose creams or oils instead of lotions, which contain alcohol, and repeat the application a few times a day.

Thick lotions that have a high oil content, also known as water-in-oil products, are best for drier skin. The oils create an effective barrier to retain moisture, and they typically last longer than lighter products.

When you’re ready to finally show some skin, make sure your skin care routine includes sunscreen whenever you go outdoors. The American Academy of Dermatology advises an SPF of at least 30 with both UVA and UVB protection to reduce any skin damage from either type of solar radiation. Even if you apply the ideal moisturizer religiously, your skin can become dry, cracked and unhealthy without proper sun protection.

Sources: American Academy of Dermatology; Livestrong.com

 

 
 


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