Dry, itchy skin is a common problem. People fail to recognize the signs of uncommon dry skin. Close attention should be paid to the symptoms.
When Skin Feels Uncomfortable
We all have experienced the uncomfortable sensation of dry and itchy skin. While the condition alone may or may not be dangerous, the way that we treat it makes all the difference. Naturally, our first reaction is to scratch the source of the itch. We also tend to self-medicate with excess washing, adding creams or covering up the area. Yet, there are specific cures for the specific causes of dry skin. Learn how to protect it from getting worse by knowing how to identify the exact origins of those annoying sensations.
The Cause of the Itch
When our body is dehydrated, or depleted of essential nutrients, our skin is immediately affected. The result of dehydration and depletion is dryness. When the dryness is present, our skin begins to dry up becoming scaly and rough. The nerve endings of our skin are quite delicate, and are the first to take in the sensation of itchiness. Scratching, which is a very normal reaction to soothe the itch, may worsen the condition of the skin. Our nails contain bacteria from exposure to everything that we touch. If your nails crack the surface of the skin we will expose the wound to contagions and germs from our hands. The result of this will be infection, which will be characterized by unhealed sores, or red patches. If this occurs you must seek the advice of a clinician or a dermatologist right away. Skin infections can continue to spread systemically throughout the body. It is better to stop the infection at the source following the instruction of a healthcare practitioner.
How to Soothe Itchy Skin
If your particular dry skin condition is caused by environmental changes, such as cold or heat, the best way to avoid complications is to continuously keep your skin hydrated inside and out. Hydrate from inside out by drinking the suggested 8 glasses of water a day to maintain a good balance of hydration inside your body. On the outside, you can protect your skin by developing a habit of using allergy-free moisturizers.
What NOT to Use
Read all the ingredients of over-the-counter lotions. Some are filled with fragrances that cause skin rashes and allergies in some individuals. The best option is to go with medicated, fragrance-free and glycerin-based creams that protect your skin from the elements. Vaseline and glycerin are great at holding the natural moisture of your skin. Creams with lanonin help to add more moisture to it. Aloe-based gels are recommended for people with sensitive skin who may have secondary reactions to cream-based solutions. Also, do not share rub-on ointments with others, as they may have already been exposed to skin ailments that you certainly do not want to share.
Overall
Healthy skin is achieved through internal and external treatments. How we eat and how we keep hydrated are important factors that affect our skin internally. The way that we interact with our environment, the things that we use to clean our bodies, and the remedies that we choose to heal our skin, are the factors that affect it externally. If we choose the right combination of inside and outside components, we will have a higher chance of having an itch-free body. Pamper and protect your skin. Never take it for granted: It is the wrap that keeps your body safe!