Prevent Dry Skin Now

Dry skin can be quite unflattering. Not only does it look dull, it’s also more prone to irritation, sun spots, and premature wrinkles. Get healthy, smooth skin with these five tips!

1. Drink more water.
You are what you eat—and drink. Healthy skin starts from the inside, so hydrate by drinking no less than eight glasses of water a day. Drink more water if you’re exercising, or supplement with a beverage that’s rich in electrolytes. Don’t rely on “thirst,” as being thirsty already means your body is already on its way to being dehydrated! Avoid diuretics like caffeine and alcohol.

2. Cut down on hot showers.
It may feel divine, but hot showers actually strip your skin of natural oil barriers that help trap in moisture. If you really must indulge in a hot shower, keep it short and sweet (five minutes is more than enough). Pat—never rub!—your body with a dry towel after. Then apply lotion all over the body to seal in moisture from your shower. 

Also read: 8 Ways To Keep Wrinkles At Bay

3. Don’t use harsh soaps.
Soaps that have heavy fragrances, or claim to be antibacterial, are loaded with chemicals that can strip your skin of its natural moisture. Stick to a white, fragrance-free soap with moisturizers. Go easy on toners, as well. Try to use an alcohol-free one to avoid skin irritation.

4. Wear sunscreen.
The sun’s UV rays contain free radicals that break down healthy skin cells. The result? Premature wrinkles, sun spots, and dry, flaky skin. Always put on sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30, and use make-up that’s infused with SPF as well.

Also read: How SPF Really Works

5. Shave with care.
Shaving not only removes unwanted hair: it also removes your skin’s natural oils. The best time to shave is after a shower. Never “dry shave”—always use a shaving cream or gel, and shave in the direction of hair growth. And change your razor often!

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