Does your skin feel tight and itchy after a shower? In winter, your significant other calls you “my little swamp crocodile skin”?
You either have dry skin naturally, or you dry out your skin without knowing it by dint of showers and baths. If you decide to remedy the bad habits torturing your skin, here are a few simple tips to help you regain the comfort of supple, protected skin.
The hydrolipidic film: A good friend
Let’s travel back in time to when you were in school. Your cherished biology instructor probably explained that the skin is composed of a series of layers. What do you mean you don’t remember?
Now, let me remind you of what you ought to have recalled. Consequently, the skin is made up of several layers stacked one on top of the other. The epidermis is the most superficial layer of the skin and the one that comes into direct touch with damaging environmental factors such as wind, cold, sun, and pollution. The epidermis is the layer of the skin that acts as a shield, protecting us from all of these external aggressors; the hydrolipidic film is an essential component of this process.
The hydrolipidic film is a thin layer that is composed of water (sweat) and lipids (sebum) that acts as a barrier between the outside world and the skin. This barrier enables the skin to retain a healthy level of hydration while also protecting itself from germs and other microbes that could be potentially harmful.
When the hydrolipidic film of your skin is disrupted, the result is skin that is dry and calloused. The following are some suggestions to help you protect your skin and keep it healthy and soft.
Rule 1: Never overdo the hot shower and bath
Let’s face it, the water alters the skin’s hydrolipidic film. A a daily shower is more than enough to stay clean. But it must not last too long, and the water must not be too hot. Spending hours in a hot bath may alter the hydrolipidic film and cause dryness. If you have dry skin, avoid bathing for more than 20 minutes.
Rule 2: Choose the right cleanser for your skin
You need to steer clear of items that are harsh on your skin if it is dry, sensitive, and prone to itching. Pick a cleanser that doesn’t contain soap and has a pH that’s around neutral. On the other hand, soap-free cleansers typically contain extracts derived from petroleum as well as surfactants. You might also choose a natural soap that is loaded with elements that moisturize and nourish the skin, such as almond oil, coconut oil, and shea butter.
You can still improve your skin by making some changes to your hygiene routine; it is not too late. Shower oils are useful for moisturizing dry to extremely dry skin. Shower oil, much like the moisturizing soap, leaves behind a thin layer of film that is both protective and moisturizing on the skin. The oily consistency of moisturizing soap or soap-free cleanser, which, when brought into contact with water, transforms into foam, is the primary distinction between the two.
Rule 3: Moisturize your skin (in the shower, but not only)
After shower, gently pat dry your skin. Avoid rubbing it, as it may cause even more irritations. Then, nourish your skin with a moisturizing cream or body oil. They bring you softness and comfort but remember that hydration comes from inside your body, so ensure to drink enough water. The best is to drink at least 1.5L per day. If you don’t like plain water, prepare flavored detox waters (lemon, mint, red fruits). We know quitting smoking is challenging, but we can swear that your skin and the rest of your body will be grateful!