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Itching From Dry Skin

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Is dry, itchy skin driving you mad? Soft, smooth skin requires a delicate balance of water and body oils. Thirsty skin can become dry, flaky, itchy, and may even crack -- sort of like dirt on the ground does during a drought.

Quench your dry skin properly, however, and you could prevent the urge to itch. Here are some simple ways to prevent and treat dry, itchy skin.

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize

If you have dry skin, you should slather yourself with moisturizer on a daily basis. It is particularly important to do so immediately after you shower, bathe, or wash your hands, while your skin is still damp. But don't be so quick to grab the first bottle you see. Not all moisturizers are the same. Here's how to choose the best one for dry, itchy skin:

Opt for a moisturizer that is thick, heavy, and gooey. Skin care experts say ointments (called emollients), such as petroleum jelly, are best. They help seal the skin and prevent water loss. But their greasy feel may be a turn-off for some people. Creams are the next best bet. Lotions should be your last resort. These products are mainly water-based, and the water quickly evaporates when applied to the skin. They do less to help lock moisture into your skin.

The moisturizer should be free of dyes, fragrances, and other possible irritants. Make sure the label says the product is hypoallergenic. This means the moisturizer is less likely to cause an allergic reaction, which can make you even itchier.

If a skin cream or ointment isn't available, check your kitchen cupboard for a quick fix. Cooking oils and shortening can work just as well as commercial moisturizers, and are likely less expensive.

Frequent hand washing can often lead to dry skin. Place a tube of hand moisturizer (ointment or cream) next to the sink so it is within reach each time you wash your hands.

Take Shorter Showers

Here's something that might leave you scratching your dry, itchy head: Too much water makes dry skin worse.

Bathing or showering too often strips the natural oils from your skin, causing it to become dry. Hot water also robs the skin of moisture. If you have dry skin, try following these tips:

Use cool or lukewarm water only while showering or bathing.
Limit showers to 10 or 15 minutes.
Do not bathe more than once a day.
Adding baby oil, Epsom salt, or oatmeal soaks to your bath can help relieve itching. If you use oil, be extremely careful to avoid slipping when getting out of the tub. (Don't forget, you still need to use moisturizer when you are finished bathing.)
Gently pat yourself dry with a towel; avoid vigorous rubbing.