Dry skin, also known as xerosis, is a common problem amongst both men and women. This condition usually affects the face, hands, arms and legs and its symptoms can include:

” A reddening of the skin.

” Skin becomes ‘tight’ and uncomfortable.

” Itchiness of the skin develops.

” Scaling and flaking of the skin, and

” The cracking and chapping of the affected area.

Dr Shaves Top Ten Tips On How To Prevent And Care For Dry Skin

There are a number of ways to prevent and cure dry skin, these are the most important, remember to:

1. Avoid the use of tap water (especially hot) when cleansing dry skin as the deposits dry too quickly and can cause skin dehydration. Instead use mineral water to cleanse and freshen your face. There are a number of mineral water based products that can be used for this purpose, however the use of a mineral water complexion mist is recommended.

2. Avoid using ‘harsh’ soaps which contain a high level of alkalinity and detergents that dry the skin. Instead try switching to a more pH neutral soap and try using a detergent designed specifically for sensitive skin, especially one that is scent, enzyme and dye free.

3. Use a relatively thin moisturising lotion or cream during the summer period and then switch to a thicker more oily ointment during the winter.

4. Avoid vigorous use of a washcloth when cleansing especially one that is of a rough texture. The friction caused by this is especially irritable to the skin.

5. Avoid excessive sunbathing as this dehydrates the skin considerably. Instead when out, find a shaded area that allows you to give you and your skin frequent breaks from direct sunlight.

6. Increase your consumption of water and essential fatty acids. This keeps your skin well lubricated and protected from the elements.

7. Use the correct products when shaving. For example before shaving apply a pre-shave lotion or gel to prepare the skin, follow this by applying (using a good quality brush) shaving cream to the area and then afterwards use a luxury aftershave balm.

8. Stay out of overheated rooms and avoid sudden changes in temperature. If this is an especially common problem, try investing in a humidifier to introduce moisture into the air of your home

9. When bathing try and use bath oils, this is especially important as moisture is removed from the skin when towelling dry afterwards. The use of bath oils allows the skin to retain most of the water that has been introduced into it, and

10. Remember that your skin needs plenty of thorough and gentle cleansing and regular stimulation. This should be done with generous amounts of massage and moisturising oil.

Finally don’t forget that your skin is fragile and if you take good care of it, it will take good care of YOU!