1. Use Cooler Water
Hot water removes the protective oil barrier that the skin produces naturally. This oil barrier helps keep your skin smooth and moist by stopping moisture from escaping. Cooler baths and showers can help keep skin hydrated. The water is too hot if skin is red after showering or bathing. Longer or frequent baths and showers can also remove the skin’s protective oils. Short baths or showers lasting no longer than 5 to 10 minutes are recommended.
2. Use Soap-Free Cleansers
Soap also removes the protective oil barrier and dries the skin. Soaps are alkaline and can aggravate existing dry skin. Use a gentle non-soap cleanser or the mildest soap available, such as oatmeal soap. Don’t rub your skin with a towel after showering or bathing, pat it softly dry instead.
3. Use an Exfoliant
Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) exfoliants are a natural way to exfoliate dead skin layers. Alpha hydroxy acids work by removing the top layers of dead skin cells. It’s also believed that AHAs enhance the skin’s ability to retain moisture. AHAs make skin extra-sensitive to the sun so make sure you apply a sunscreen when using.
4. Use Sun Protection
Sun damage is one of the main causes behind dry skin, wrinkles, and roughness. Help prevent sun damage by using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen year-round. Use a lip balm with SPF 15 sunscreen to prevent dry, chapped lips.
5. Use a Collagen Elixir
A collagen elixir nourishes your skin from the inside out, and will help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by improving skin elasticity and maintain a more youthful appearance with increased collagen production.
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