Dry skin has too little moisture and fat. The skin can be fragile and easily irritated. It can also itch. It is important to take care of dry skin so that the problems do not get worse.
You can get eczema problems if your skin is very dry.
Symptoms of dry skin
Dry skin can be reddish and scaly. Often it tightens, especially when you have showered or sunbathed. The skin may be a little drier in some places, such as elbows, knees, narrow bones, hands, and feet.
When and where should I seek care?
Most people who have dry skin do not need to seek care, but can alleviate the problems themselves.
Contact a health care center if any of the following is true of you:
- It still itches even though you have been trying to relieve itching for a week.
- You get red itchy spots.
If it is a weekend, you can wait until it is every day. You can contact many receptions by logging in.
What can I do for myself?
In winter, the air is drier both outdoors and indoors. Then you need to take care of your skin extra carefully.
When you wash yourself
Some of the skin’s natural fat disappears when you wash with soap. Therefore, it is good to use oil or wash cream instead of soap. Oil dissolves dirt without drying out the skin. If you want to use soap, it is good to use one that is mild and unpainted.
There are special shower oils and bath oils to buy at pharmacies.
After the shower, it is good to pat the skin dry with the towel instead of rubbing.
You can also try not to shower or bathe so often.
Lubricate the skin
You may need to lubricate yourself with a softening cream or lotion once or twice a day. Lubricating the skin can also reduce itching.
Softening agents contain fat and humectants in various amounts. A lotion is thinner and less oily than a cream. Some prefer lotions that quickly penetrate the skin, but may instead need to be applied more frequently. Others think that a fatter cream is better and more effective. You have to try it out.
At pharmacies and many other stores there are many different types of creams and lotions.
Try not to itch
Try not to itch, rub or tear on the skin that is irritated. It can aggravate the hassle.
Avoid heat
Heat can aggravate the itching. Therefore, it is good if you dress cool and have loose clothing closest to the body.
You can also lower the temperature in the bedroom or use a thin duvet.
You should understand the information
In order for you to be involved in your care and treatment, it is important that you understand the information you receive from the healthcare staff. Ask questions if you don’t understand. For example, you should receive information about treatment options and how long you may have to wait for care and treatment.