Six tips from a dermatologist to avoid dry skin – 04/14/2023 – Equilíbrio

As we enter the colder months, many people brace themselves for the itchiness, flaking, and dryness that can attack their skin. Dr. A. Yasmine Kirkorian, chief of dermatology at the National Children’s Hospital in Washington, knows it can be difficult to keep your skin hydrated. See what to do.

avoid fragrances

Scented products are a common culprit of allergic contact dermatitis, a rash that can occur when your skin touches substances that can cause reactions. Because this condition can dry out the skin, it’s important to avoid products that can make matters worse when the air is drier, such as those with fragrances.

protect hands

Kirkorian bikes to work year-round, so in the colder months she wears gloves to prevent cracking. She also avoids washing her hands with strong soaps and often moisturises them after washing.

Avoid excess foam

Kirkorian says most people use too much soap when they shower. She, on the other hand, concentrates her foam on the “odor zones”, such as the armpits, groin and feet.

Wash your hair upside down

When shampoo residue drips onto your neck and back, it can cause dry skin and breakouts if you have sensitive skin. Then she tilts her head down while washing and conditioning her hair.

Reduce skin abrasion

Scrubbing the body with loofahs, sponges or washcloths creates friction that can remove healthy oils that keep the skin moist. Kirkorian uses only his hands to wash, and when he steps out of the shower he dries his body by pressing a towel gently over his skin, not rubbing.

abuse the moisturizer

After the shower, she spreads a generous layer of moisturizer on her body. “The thicker the better,” she points out. She opts for unscented creams and looks for products that the skin absorbs quickly.