When selecting face and physique moisturizers, “Boring is greatest; the extra bland, the higher,” Dr. Craiglow stated. She advisable avoiding perfume and preservatives like parabens or methylisothiazolinone, which might additional irritate dry pores and skin. Manufacturers corresponding to Aquaphor, Cetaphil, CeraVe and Vanicream are good choices.
The gold customary for moisturizing is a thick, occlusive product like petroleum jelly, which creates a bodily barrier to lock in hydration. Nevertheless it’s OK to make use of a cream or lotion in case you don’t love heavier, greasier formulation, Dr. Weinberg stated, including, “A cream you utilize is best than an ointment you don’t use.”
No matter you select, use it commonly — after you bathe and anytime you’re feeling dry.
And don’t neglect your palms: Put on gloves whenever you’re outdoors and you should definitely moisturize after you wash. “If you happen to’re washing your palms many instances a day and utilizing hand sanitizer, you’re going to annoy your palms they usually’ll get crimson, dry, flaky,” Dr. Weinberg stated. Sarcastically, frequent hand washing can harm the lipid barrier and make it simpler for pathogens to enter the physique.
Different components to contemplate
A humidifier may help scale back the moisture loss that pores and skin experiences in indoor environments, particularly for individuals who dwell in condo buildings with very dry warmth, Dr. Weinberg stated. “Simply be sure to clear it out and alter the water each day — humidifiers is usually a excellent place for micro organism to develop,” he stated.
Whereas there’s no sturdy proof that dietary supplements or particular consuming plans measurably hydrate your pores and skin, “ensuring you’re ingesting satisfactory water and getting good fat in your eating regimen, like avocado, walnuts and olive oil, can help a wholesome lipid barrier,” Dr. Strachan stated.