The Latest on Dry Skin
Choosing the right Moisturizer to protect your skin
Q: My skin is so dry, what should I look for when choosing a moisturizer? Aren't they all the same?
A: The wide selection of moisturizers on the shelves today does make choosing difficult.
They can all work to some extent to provide a barrier preventing moisture loss from the skin or deliver a humidifying effect, but some may be nicer to use than others. Formulations all contain water and oil in various percentages, and range from tried-andtrue petroleum jelly (which is 95% oil and the most effective at reducing water loss through the skin) - to milk (historically associated with Cleopatra and her personal bathing habits), which is mostly water, although it can help humidify and soften the skin because of the lactic acid content. The downside of these two extremes is the sticky, greasy feel of petrolatum and the odour or a possible allergic reaction to milk.
Fortunately, modern technology has recently enabled chemists to create advanced, more effective formulations resulting in emulsions of oil,water and other ingredients that resemble the natural structure of the skin. These are called "new generation" moisturizers.
Healthy skin has a protective outer layer that keeps moisture in and harmful elements, such as dirt and bacteria, out. It is made up of stacked proteins surrounded by naturally occurring oils, called lipids. When this outer layer is damaged, the lipids are lost and moisture escapes, resulting in dry, irritated skin. How can you regenerate this protective layer? Regular use of a new generation moisturizer, such as Impruv Cream, which contains lipids similar to those found in the skin, can help restructure your skin's protective outer layer and prevent further moisture loss.
What to look for in a moisturizer
Most dermatologists will tell patients who suffer from severely dry or itchy skin to select a moisturizer that is free of fragrances, preservatives, and dyes and which is described on the label as "hypoallergenic". If the label says it is non-stinging, and nonirritating, this is a plus.
It is a given that any health professional will tell you that a good moisturizer should first of all be effective, providing fast relief from dry itchy skin by hydrating it. This means it should be designed to penetrate deep into the outer skin layer, to minimize water loss, replenish the skin's natural lipid (or oil) barrier and leave you feeling silky smooth.
Do's and don'ts for dry skin
It is only common sense to avoid hot showers, scrubbing your skin, extremes of temperature, or high winds and too much sun.
You can protect yourself by wearing utility gloves for many day to day activities, and avoiding cleaning products containing abrasive chemicals.
A must - drink plenty of water - your body's internal reservoir is your best skin moisturizer!
If you have severely dry skin which persists despite everything you have tried, the best thing to do is ask your physician about available treatments.
- News Canada
This article also includes: