Your Health's Journal

– The skin is a metabolically active organ that needs water as an essential component to maintain its elasticity and preserve the integrity of its barrier function. The water content of the upper horny layer in young skin is between 10-20% of the total water content of the body.

– The skin maintains its moisture through water from the deeper layers (transepidermal water) and normal sweat secretion. Due to various factors, e.g. lack of water-retaining substances, excessive dryness of the air or impaired barrier function, water loss to the outside may be increased. Below 10%, the skin becomes drier, more fragile, rougher, duller and more prone to skin diseases. Water deficiency also makes wrinkles more visible.

– Dry skin is a common concern. Even the healthiest skin can dry from the hot summer sun and the cold winter air. Dry skin feels rough, looks flaky and is easily irritated. Your skin creates a natural barrier that protects it from dryness, but the elements can take their toll. While you could purchase a moisturizer from a cosmetic company, they may not completely solve your dry skin problems. There are natural alternatives that will replenish the hydration of your skin.

-Drink More Water

– Your skin will not remain hydrated if you neglect the rest of your body. Without proper hydration, your body will pull much-needed moisture out of your skin. Drinking more water is one of the most beneficial ways to replenish skin hydration. Fruit infused water and herbal teas are perfectly acceptable alternatives. You will find that your natural moisturizers work even better when you stay properly hydrated.

-Add Humidity to Your Environment

– Indoor heat will rob your skin of moisture. Adding a humidifier during the colder months will help keep your skin from drying. You should aim for about 40 percent humidity. Using a humidifier will help you replenish the moisture in your skin, as well as sooth irritated eyes and sinuses. You may want to fill your humidifier with distilled water. Tap water typically contains a lot of minerals that breed bacteria.

-Turn Down the Temperature

– Your skin has a protective barrier to keep the moisture and lipids in your skin while keeping bacteria and pollution out. When you subject your skin to hot water, you will strip your skin of its natural moisture and protection. Turn the temperature down a bit in your bath or shower. After bathing, nurture your skin with a natural moisturizer.

-Remove Accumulated Skin Cells

– Exfoliation will do more than remove blackheads and clear your pores. When you exfoliate, you remove debris from the surface of your skin. Your skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down as you get older. A gentle, natural exfoliant will remove that dulling layer of dry, flaky skin, allowing your moisturizers to work more effectively. You can use any of the following natural exfoliators:

• A loofah or washcloth
• A paste made with baking soda or sugar and water
• Sea Salt and organic coconut oil
• Ground oatmeal and jojoba oil
• Brown sugar and olive oil

– You can use any combination of scrubbing agent and oil. You may want to start gently; you don’t want to irritate your skin with too much pressure. You can use these simple scrubs all over your body or just on rough areas.

-Natural Moisturizers

– Commercial moisturizers often make more promises than they can keep. You will be pleased to know that there are many natural products that work just as well. The goal of your moisturizer is to prevent water from evaporating from your skin. There are many natural oils that will do the same, without the preservatives or petroleum products that can irritate your skin.

• Argan Oil: ideal for face and body. High in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil reduces inflammation and promotes collagen production.
• Jojoba Oil: this oil is closest to the natural oil in your skin. It is high in copper, zinc, vitamin E and vitamin A, which will benefit the health of your skin.
• Olive Oil: is high in squalene and vitamin E. Much like jojoba oil; olive oil absorbs easily into your skin.
• Organic Coconut Oil: has antibacterial properties. Coconut oil is an ideal natural moisturizer for eczema and psoriasis.
• Avocado Oil: this oil is also high in vitamin E and essential fatty acids. Avocado is a rich emollient for dry or aging skin.
• Flaxseed Oil: is high in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. You can use the oil directly on your skin. Flaxseeds added to your diet are beneficial for your skin as well.
• Safflower Oil: is high in linoleic acid, that helps your skin hold moisture. Safflower oil is nearly as beneficial for dry, irritated skin as argan oil, without the higher price tag.

-There are many natural remedies available to banish dry, damaged skin. The best way to use natural oil is to apply it directly to damp skin. You can use these oils on their own or in any combination. By increasing your water intake, adding moisture to your environment, gentle exfoliation, and the use of natural oils, you can replenish the hydration of your skin.

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– Until next time!

– Anne-Vasthi