The best remedies for dry skin

Whether it’s on your hands, face or body, none of us want dry skin. Though it can be especially problematic and common for a lot of people in the colder months, for many of us, it’s a year-round battle!

To make your life just a little easier, we’ve scoured the net for the most effective skincare remedies proven to help soothe and smooth dry skin. Whether you’ve five minutes or a good couple of hours to spare, there’s a remedy here for you.

Dial down the temperature

We know it’s super tempting and, let’s be honest, heavenly having a hot shower on a freezing cold day, but unfortunately, all that hot water will do your skin no good at all. Hot water dries out our skin and robs it of its moisture. Instead, try taking a lukewarm shower and treating yourself to a fluffy robe and a hot water bottle to warm up afterwards!

Bathe…

Try taking a warm (not hot) bath before bed. When you’re done, gently pat yourself almost dry with a clean towel. This will allow any creams or lotions you apply to lock in that moisture.

…then reach for the coconut oil

After your bath, cover your body in coconut oil. Sleep in an old, preferably cotton, pair of pyjamas that will allow your skin to breathe. Let the oil do its work its magic overnight!

We’ve lost count of the things that coconut oil can do for our bodies and now we’re adding super soft skin to the list! It can also improve the antioxidant status of your skin which provides anti-inflammatory qualities. That means it will not only nourish and moisturise your skin but may also take care of any redness you have from dry areas.

Out with the old…

If your skin is dry and never exfoliated, it will always be dry. Make sure you’re regularly, and gently, exfoliating your skin to buff away the older, dry and dead cells and allowing new softer ones to generate.

Protect your hands

If it’s your hands that are dry there are a few simple things that you can do to help them heal. It may seem like a hassle but wearing gloves to wash the dishes will save your hands touching harsh dish soaps and being irritated by food. When you wash your hands in public, avoid the air dryer! Pat them try with a towel or, better yet, let them air dry. Good for your hands, good for the environment!

Sophie Cook