Don't stress about dry skin

After a long winter with the heaters on making the air inside dry, you may notice your skin is tight, dry and cracking. This is one of the most common complaints we hear from our patients and friends.

Before you spend hundreds of dollars on fancy moisturizing creams, consider these tips to ease that dry, winter skin:

1. Avoid long, hot baths. Taking short baths or showers in tepid water is the best way to maintain your skin's natural moisture. It may be hard to dial back the hot water, especially if you bathe in a chilly bathroom in the morning, but try bringing in a small heater to warm up the room. Just be sure to keep the heater away from water and follow all safety instructions.
2. After your shower, moisturize within three minutes. We recommend using a product that contains petrolatum, mineral oil, linoleic acid, ceramides, dimethicone or glycerin. Products with oatmeal or alpha hydroxy acids also add hydration and soothe itchy skin.
3. Take care of your face. Do not use harsh abrasives on your face in the winter. Find a gentle facial cleanser and follow it with a daily moisturizer with at least SPF 30. SPF 30 has been shown to block 97 percent of UVA/UVB rays that contribute to premature aging and sunburn.
4. Fill the air with moisture. Humidifiers placed in the bedroom can help add moisture to the air and improve your skin. Try using a humidifier with a few drops of an essential oil such as lavender. This adds moisture and has a soothing aromatherapy effect.
5. Protect your skin from the elements. When traveling, make sure to protect your skin by using sunblock, including a lip balm with sunblock. Reapply every two hours.
6. Remove dry or dead skin with gentle exfoliation. About three times a week, gently exfoliate your skin using a brush or an exfoliation cream to bring out smoother skin. Don't neglect your heels.
7. Stay hydrated. Hydrating your body contributes to hydrated skin, so be sure to drink plenty of water.

If you have extremely dry skin or persistent rashes, consult your dermatologist or primary care physician to have an evaluation done.

Daniel W. Cuozzo, DO, FAAD, is a dermatologist, and Melissa Taylor, NP, is a nurse practitioner with the Beebe Center for Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery at the Medical Arts Building on Route 24 near Rehoboth Beach. For more information, call 302-645-4801.