Dry skin

Dry skin

DEFINITION
Dry skin occurs when the outermost layer of the skin is
lacking moisture or sebum. There are two types of dry skin: simple
dry skin and complex dry skin. Simple dry skin mostly affects men
and women under the age of 35. It can result from a lack of natural
oils. Complex dry skin lacks both oil and moisture, and is
characterised by brown spots, enlarged pores, fine lines and
sagging skin. Complex dry skin can occur with ageing.
DESCRIPTION
Dry skin may be dull-looking, scaly and cracked. It can be
hard to touch, wrinkled, develops fine lines and often feels
‘tight’. Skin problems, such as psoriasis and contact dermatitis,
may show similar symptoms. Hypothyroidism may also lead to Dry
Skin. Certain drugs such as diuretics and antihistamines may also
aggravate dry skin. Dry skin is common on areas of the body which
are exposed to the elements, particularly in winter. Dry Skin may
be hereditary in some people.
A balance of oil and moisture is necessary for healthy skin.
Oil is secreted by the sebaceous glands and lubricates the surface
of the skin. There needs to be sufficient water in the skin cells
as well as enough oil to act as protection. This prevents excess
evaporation of moisture from the outermost layers of the
skin.
Dry skin may be caused or influenced by a poor diet. A diet
low in essential fatty acids and other nutrients can cause the skin
to become dry and flaky.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Always consult your Doctor for diagnosis and advice. This
information is in no way intended to replace the advice of a
medical practitioner.
Consider internal factors such as having a healthy diet,
regular bowel movements, adequate water intake, exercise (increases
blood circulation to the skin) and reducing stress levels. These
factors may contribute to excess water and oil loss by the
skin.
External factors to avoid include; excess exposure to the sun,
wind, cold, chemicals, excessive bathing, soaps and
cosmetics. 
The main treatment for Dry Skin is frequent use of emollients
to repair and rehydrate the skin. Avoid artificial mineral oils and
petroleum jelly as they may not be efficiently absorbed into the
skin.
Dry skin needs to be nourished. Some suggestions to replenish
dry skin include;
  • Olive oil may encourage natural oil production if used
    consistently. Rub in every night until the skin has improved.
  • Rubbing in evening primrose oil, almond oil or avocado oil can
    cleanse and nourish the skin. Pat the oil on, then wash it off with
    warm water and a soft cloth. Bathing in oils, including
    aromatherapy oils, are excellent for dry skin. See the Aromatherapy
    section in this topic.
  • Try a loofah sponge weekly with warm water to boost circulation
    and remove dead skin cells. Avoid the loofah if your skin is
    inflamed, cracked or sore.
  • Look for skin care products which contain humectants.
    Humectants are substances which attract water to the skin to hold
    in moisture. Vegetable glycerine, vitamin B5 and vitamin E are all
    natural humectants. 
  • To heal cracked, inflamed and dry skin try using herbal creams.
    Comfrey, chickweed, calendula and aloe vera may help relieve dry
    skin when applied daily. Pure Vitamin E oil can also be applied
    directly to the skin.
  • Sesame oil may be useful as a moisturiser. Sesame oil is often
    used because it is most resistant to spoilage. Most skin
    preparations which are rich in essential fatty acids and oils have
    a short shelf-life. 
  • Most of these oils recommended are edible oils.
DIET HINTS
  • Try to have a more alkaline diet. Include fish (grilled) at
    least three times a week. See the topic acid – alkaline foods for
    more information.
  • Essential fatty acids are important to maintain healthy skin
    and to help reduce inflammation. Sources include; fish,
    particularly tuna, salmon, halibut and sardines; nuts and seeds;
    and vegetable oils.
  • Avoid fried foods, animal fats and heat processed vegetable
    oils. Heating oils may lead to free radical production. Free
    radicals may be damaging.
  • Avoid heavily spiced food which may cause flushing.
  • Include high fibre foods in the diet. Wholemeal bread, wheat
    bran cereals, rice bran, brown rice, blackberries, strawberries and
    passionfruit are some examples. These may help maintain regular
    bowel function.
  • Try to include five ample servings of fresh fruit and
    vegetables every day. Always try to use fresh produce.
  • Try to drink up to six glasses of water daily, particularly
    filtered water. Include fresh fruit juices as they contain vital
    ingredients which help nourish the skin.
  • Decrease alcohol intake. Alcohol has a diuretic effect which
    may cause the body to lose fluids and essential minerals.
VITAMINS/MINERALS/HERBS
Supplements may only be of assistance if dietary intake is
inadequate. 
  • Essential fatty acids (linseed oil) may help repair the skin,
    reduce inflammation and increase softness of the skin. 
  • Vitamin Amay help strengthen and protect skin tissue. It may
    decrease skin inflammation. – Vitamin E may protect against free
    radicals and maintain prostaglandin synthesis. Topically it may
    reduce wrinkling, scarring and inflammation. 
  • Vitamin C may be effective for inflammation. Vitamin C is
    necessary for collagen production. It may strengthen capillaries
    which feed blood to the skin.
  • Zinc may help flaky, dry and inflamed skin, scaling and rashes.
    Zinc also helps with fatty acid metabolism.
  • Evening Primrose oil contains an essential fatty acid called
    linoleic acid which is required by the skin. It may reduce
    inflammation and dryness of the skin.
AROMATHERAPY
The listed oils are suggested for the health management of Dry
Skin. The most specific oils are shown in capitals. 
Apricot Kernel, AVOCADO, Carrot, EVENING PRIMROSE, GERANIUM,
Jasmine, JOJOBA, Orange, Neroli, Sandalwood, Sweet Almond.
Application:
DIRECT: Blend any single listed essential oil or combination
of essential oils – 5 drops (total) to 10mL (1/3 fl oz) carrier oil
ie: Apricot Kernel, Avocado, Evening Primrose, Jojoba, Sweet
Almond. Apply to dry skin area twice daily. Any listed carrier oil
can be applied neat to the skin. Jasmine and Neroli oil, when
diluted 3% in Jojoba oil and the Carrot infused oil can be blended
10 drops (total) to 10mL (1/3 fl oz) carrier oil and applied in the
same manner.
PHARMACIST’S ADVICE
Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
  1. Follow the Diet Hints.
  2. Keep the body as cool as possible to prevent sweating and
    flushing.
  3. Use a good skin moisturiser, either a gel or cream, after
    bathing. It can be used throughout the day. Ask your Pharmacist to
    recommend products specifically designed to relieve itchy, dry
    skin.
  4. Bathing should be kept to a minimum, every two days. Hot water
    and soap strip natural oil from the skin. Use warm water and mild
    soap or a soap replacement. Some products are available to help
    moisten the skin. Ask your Pharmacist for the most suitable
    product.
  5. Harsh cleaners, detergents, solvents and bleaches must be
    avoided at all times. These can upset the natural acid-alkali
    balance of the skin.
  6. A humidifier in the room may be beneficial.