Dry Skin

Moisture is essential for smooth and soft skin but sometimes especially in winters the skin is not able to retain the moisture resulting in dry skin. Dry skin is also known as xerosis. In sebum level in dry skin is very low making it sensitive and prone to various skin problems. Dry skin gives a dull and flaky look especially on the cheeks and around the eyes. It needs proper care as dry skin has a tendency for broken veins, flakiness, dry patches and sore skin. After every wash skin gives a tight feeling. Wind, dry weather and extremes of temperatures aggravate the situation. People with dry skin have a history of premature wrinkles. It is a temporary and not a serious problem but if not treated properly it may become problematic. The lower legs, arms, sides of the abdomen and thighs are more prone to dry skin.

The various causes of dry skin are:

· Environmental conditions- exposure to sun, dry weather, use of harsh and strong soaps.

· Nutritional deficiencies- poor diet deficient in vitamin A and B. less intake of fluids also result in dry skin

· Genetic factors

· Low sebum level

· Various skin problems like eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis

CARE FOR DRY SKIN

Dry skin needs lot of care. To avoid further dryness the skin should be washed with mineral water as tap water has many mineral deposits that cause dryness. Using harsh soaps and frequent washing should be avoided. The skin should be immediately moisturized with a good moisturizer after bathing. Daily massage with baby oil is recommended for dry skin as it helps in retaining the moisture of the skin.

Face packs

· Mix 10 almonds, two spoons oatmeal, four tablespoons of full cream milk, two spoons china clay, juice of half a lemon, and one mashed avocado. Apply on face and leave it for 20 minutes. Wipe it off with a cotton wool dipped in cold milk. Splash the face with cold water and apply a moisturizer.

· Mash a slice of a ripe peach and apply on the face all over face and neck. Rubbing a peach slice is also beneficial.

· Make a paste by mixing strawberry and fresh cream. Apply it on the face and wash it off after 20-30 minutes.

· Mix together one egg, one teaspoon of honey, half teaspoon of olive oil and few drops of rose water. Apply this mixture on the face and neck. Wash it with cold water after 15-20 minutes.

· Mix together one tablespoon of orange juice with half tablespoon of honey and apply it on the face. Wash the face after 15-20 minutes.

· Make a paste with a guava and a spoon of honey. Apply on the face and wash after 20 minutes.

Facial

A daily routine facial includes three basic steps of cleansing, massage and a face pack.

Apply cleansing milk on the face and neck. Massage gently with the fingers in circular and in outward direction for few minutes. Now splash the face with water and pat dry it with a soft towel or cloth.

Now wet the palms of the hand take some cold cream and massage the face in upward stroking movements. The main purpose of the massage is to provide relaxation to the muscles and it also stimulates the blood circulation. Massage the face for at least 10 minutes for maximum benefits.

The last step in the facial is the application of face pack. Face pack helps in removing dust particles that close the pores and tighten the facial muscles. After a face pack light moisturizer can also be applied on the skin.

Herbs

· Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera gel has been used in the treatment of wounds, minor burns, and skin irritations since ages. The plant contains about 96 percent of water; the other active ingredients include essential oil, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, enzymes and glycoproteins. All these ingredients provide a natural glow to the skin and helps in retaining moisture of the skin even in harsh climates.

· Chamomile

Due to soothing and anti-inflammatory properties it is an ideal herb to use in the treatment of various skin problems including eczema, irritations etc. it can be used for bathing. Tie one or half cup fresh or dried herb in linen bag. Place in tub with hot water and let it get soaked for 10 minutes. Add cold water according to your preference.

· Calendula

It belongs to the same family as arnica and has wound healing properties. The main constituents of the herb are carotenoids, resin, essential oil, flavonoids, sterol, saponins and mucilage. The flowers are an excellent remedy for inflamed skin.

· Sage

Sage contains a volatile oil, resin, tannin and a bitter principle. The oil is composed of camphor, salvene, cineol and pinene. The fresh leaves contain good amounts of vitamin A and C that are helpful in dealing with all skin problems. It is considered one among the natural antiseptics.

Essential oils

· Lavender oil

It is one of the active ingredients of aromatherapy. Lavender essential oils contain hormones, antibiotics, pheromones and cell regenerating agents that nourish, energies and protect the skin.

· Hyssop oil

Hyssop oil acts as a stimulant and a tonic. Massaging the skin with hyssop oil helps in dealing with dryness, wounds and burns.

· Sandalwood

Sandalwood and the essential oil have been used in Ayurveda from many centuries. Oil is a stimulant and an antiseptic. It has a soothing effect on the skin.

Other than face packs, facial, herbs and essential oil, diet also plays an important role in dealing with dry skin. A person should include all the four basic food groups i.e. fruits and vegetables, grains, seeds and nuts. Emphasis should be on raw foods, fresh fruit juices and the food products rich in sulphur like garlic, onion and eggs. Fried foods, alcohol, smoking, caffeine, soft drinks should be avoided as they dehydrate the skin. Other than diet regular exercise is the best way to provide a healthy and natural glow to the skin.