Dry skin is a common skin problem that everyone experiences. It happens when the skin doesn’t have enough moisture to stay hydrated and can become irritated, itchy, and flaky. Dry skin can lead to various skin problems such as eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis.
Many factors can cause dry skin, such as humidity, wind, cold temperatures, harsh soaps, and hot showers. To help relieve dry skin, it’s essential to understand what is causing it and then take steps to treat and prevent it.
One of the most overlooked reasons for dry skin is the weather. The weather can significantly impact your skin, especially if you live in an area with extreme temperatures. The cold weather can cause the skin to become dry and chapped, while the hot weather can cause the skin to become sweaty and oily.
The United States is about to face one of the hottest summer seasons. If you want to protect your skin from both the sun and dryness, you will need these tips.
Wear Sunblock
The most obvious way to keep your skin from drying out during the summer is to wear sunblock. It’s crucial to find a sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher water-resistant. Apply the sunblock liberally to all exposed areas of skin, including the face, neck, arms, and legs.
Reapply the sunblock every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. It’s good to apply sunblock even if you’re not under the sun’s direct heat. UV rays can still penetrate through clouds, so it’s essential to be protected even on cloudy days.
The best part about sunblock is that they come with moisturizing agents that can help keep your skin hydrated while you’re wearing it. So it’s an all-in-one product that can keep your skin healthy.
Drink Plenty of Water
Your fluid intake can significantly impact your skin’s moisture levels. Therefore, it’s essential to drink plenty of water, especially during the summer months when you sweat more. The recommended daily water intake is eight glasses, but you may need more depending on your activity level and the weather.
Your intake can also depend on your weight. A good rule of thumb is to drink half of your body weight in ounces. So if you weigh 150 pounds, you should aim to drink 75 ounces of water per day.
If you’re not a big fan of plain water, there are other ways to get your daily intake. For example, you can eat fruits and vegetables that contain high water content, such as watermelons, cucumbers, and tomatoes. You can also drink fruit juices, vegetable juices, or herbal teas. But avoid soft drinks as those can dehydrate you more.
Check Your Swimming Pool’s Ph Levels
Your home pool’s ph levels could be why you have dry skin. Most pools have a ph level between 7.2 and 7.8, which is on the alkaline side. When your skin is exposed to alkaline water, it can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier that protects it from dehydration.
If you’re a regular swimmer, you should invest in a pool test kit to ensure that your pool’s pH levels are suitable. You can also ask your pool maintenance company to test it for you. If you want to adjust the pool’s ph level, you can ask the same company to do it for you. They have the right tools and know-how to fix the problem without damaging your pool.
Use Humectants
Humectants are substances that help to retain moisture. They work by drawing water from the environment and binding it to the skin. Many products on the market contain humectants, such as lotions, creams, gels, and serums.
Look for products that contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and urea. These are all great humectants that can help to keep your skin hydrated.
You can also find products that contain natural humectants such as honey, aloe vera, and avocado. These ingredients can be just as effective as synthetic ones.
Protect Your Skin from Chafing
Chafing is a common problem during the summer months, especially if you enjoy being active outdoors. Chafing occurs when the skin rubs against clothing or other materials, which can cause irritation, redness, and dryness.
To prevent chafing, you should wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing. In addition, if you’re sweating a lot, you might want to consider wearing moisture-wicking fabrics. You can also apply a lubricant to the areas of your skin prone to chafing.
There are many products on the market specifically designed to prevent chafing. You can find them in the form of gels, creams, powders, and sprays.
Now that you know how to keep your skin moisturized during the summer, you can put these tips into action. Drink plenty of water, apply sunblock, and use humectants to keep your skin hydrated all season long. And if you’re experiencing chafing, then make sure to use a lubricant to prevent irritation. By following these tips, you can enjoy summer’s fun without worrying about dry skin.
