Restore Hydration: Expert Tips for Dry Skin

You can restore the moisture in your skin even if it is as dry as a toasted whole-wheat sawdust sandwich. For many people, winter brings colder temperatures, drier air and rough, itchy dry skin. Frequent bathing or washing with a harsh skin-drying soap or cleanser can also wreak havoc on your skin. By following a few steps, you can restore your skin to its baby softness.

Things You'll Need

• Emollient-based body wash or mild soap
• Emollient-based skin moisturizer

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Instructions

• 1

  Take a short bath or shower using warm water. Lather your body with a high-emollient skin cleanser or mild soap and gently clean your body.

• 2

  Dry your skin by gently patting or blotting yourself with a soft towel.

• 3

  Apply an emollient moisturizer to your skin after you dry off. Use the heaviest, oil-based moisturizer you can tolerate.

• 4

  Drink enough water every day to stay hydrated.

• 5

  Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air during the winter months or if you live in an arid, dry climate.

• 6

  Avoid using skin-care products that are alcohol-based or that contain chemicals to which your skin is sensitive.