Dry skin is a relatively minor condition. Nevertheless, it can make your skin feel tight and itchy and lead to premature aging.

When dry skin does become a serious condition, it can cause disfiguring and provoke self-esteem issues. Fortunately, most dry skin problems stem from environmental factors and can be controlled, partially or completely. This article will deal with lifestyle changes you can make and natural remedies you can use to treat your dry skin problems.

Lifestyle Changes

There are several changes that you will have to make to improve your dry skin. They are very straightforward modifications that will not disrupt your daily routine.

Lifestyle Change 1 - Moisturizing

Moisturizing is an essential part to keeping your skin healthy. Apply thick moisturizers when you skin is still damp. Do not let your skin dry completely.

You may also want to use cosmetics that contain moisturizers. If you have extremely dry skin, try using oils instead of creams and lotions. Oil has more staying power and will prevent water from evaporating from the surface of your skin.

Lifestyle Change 2- Bath Time

Instead of hot water, use warm water to bathe. Hot water and long showers eliminate the natural oils from your skin. Keep your shower and bath time under 15 minutes and use warm water.

Lifestyle Change 3 - Types of soaps for Dry Skin

The best cleansers for dry skin are those that contain moisturizers. Pick mild soaps that contain additional oils and fats. Keep away from antibacterial detergents because they are especially harsh.

Experimenting with different brands is a good rule of thumb. If the cleanser makes your skin tight and itchy, try another one.

Natural Oils and Homemade Remedies for Dry Skin

Many oils can be used as a natural moisturizer for your skin. Olive oil is the most common, but there are others like aloe-vera oil, lavender oil, wheat germ oil among others. All of these can be used separately or mixed together (with other natural products) like in the following recipe for a natural dry skin moisturizer.

Natural Moisturizer Recipe:

1 tsp. aloe vera oil

1 tsp. jojoba oil

2 tsp. sweet-almond oil

2 tsp. wheat-germ oil

5 drops palmarosa essential oil

3 drops carrot-seed essential oil

2 drops lavender essential oil

Combine the oils and place in the refrigerator in a glass container. Cleanse your face and apply 7 drops of this natural moisturizer on your face and neck by massaging it into your skin with gentle motions. You should use this natural moisturizer for 6 months to attain the full benefits.

Even though these ingredients are natural, consult an expert for possible side effects.