Dry skin is a common issue for many people, especially approaching the Winter months when we experience cold, dry winds and the increasing desire to never get out of that steamy hot shower! Unfortunately, our attempts to stay warm and toasty during the colder months actually does damage to our skin, as the heat dries all of the moisture out of our skin, leading to dry, flaky and itchy skin.
For some, dry skin is an issue dealt with all year round due to conditions such as eczema. Eczema is a a chronic health problem that affects many people of all ages but is most common in infants, and can be a result of allergies or inherited factors. People with eczema usually have issues retaining moisture in their skin which causes it to dry out easier, leading to that dry, cracked and flaky situation. This can cause itching of the irritated skin, which can cause discomfort, disrupt sleep and affect your quality of life.
Thankfully, dry skin and eczema are both conditions that can be managed easily - daily care and management is required to reduce the symptoms and protect the skin. Here are some tips:
- Avoid really hot showers or baths
- Use soap-free washes, such as DermaVeen's Soap Free Cleansing Bar or Wash, instead of soaps or body washes - these can aggravate eczema and dry out your natural skin oils
- Try using a bath or shower oil to help moisturise your skin while bathing, such as DermaVeen's Bath & Shower Oil
- After bathing, don't rub yourself dry with a towel, try patting or dabbing your skin
- If you have eczema, steer clear of using perfumes directly on your skin, or scented moisturisers
- Use a humidifier at home during Winter and set it to about 60% which should help replenish the top layer of your skin
- Moisturise your hands or body immediately after washing, this helps lock in moisture while your skin is still moist, try DermaVeen's Daily Nourish Moisturising Lotion or their Sensitive Relief Eczema Lotion for Eczema sufferers. As eczema is most common in kids and babies, you can try their Eczema Cream for Babies too
The DermaVeen range is a fantastic option for daily management of good skin health, and also those who suffer from eczema, with their specialised eczema range. Formulated with Colloidal Oatmeal, DermaVeen helps soothe, restore and protect dry, itchy and sensitive skin with it's hypoallergenic, pH balanced and soap-free formula. It is also free from common irritants and dermatologically tested.
For more information or advice, visit your local Pharmacy 4 Less and chat to one of our friendly pharmacists!
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Sources:
Australian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy
Victoria State Government - Eczema
Harvard Health Publishing
American Academy of Dermatology