Wash your face gently at least twice a day.
On your face, use a gentle, alcohol-free, non foaming cleanser twice a day and after sweating. Products containing stearic acid (found in shea butter) or linoleic acid (found in argan oil and other oils) can aid in skin repair. If you have sensitive skin, only use a cleanser in the evening and rinse with water the rest of the time.
Apply any topical medications you’re using while your skin is still damp, wait a few minutes (see medication packaging for details), and then apply your moisturizer. If you use cosmetics, look for products with a cream or oil base. Even on cloudy days, use a sunblock moisturizer or a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Moisturize.
Apply moisturizer several times per day, particularly when your skin feels dry and immediately after hand washing or bathing, while your skin is still moist. Inquire with your doctor about the benefits and drawbacks of various products for your skin type and condition. You may need to try a few products before you find ones that you like, that help you, and that you’ll use on a regular basis.
Use warm water and keep your bath time to a minimum.
Long showers or baths, as well as hot water, remove the natural oils from your skin. Bathe no more than once per day and for no more than 5-10 minutes. Warm, not hot, water should be used.
Use a moisturizing soap that is free of allergens.
Use fragrance-free (hypoallergenic) moisturizing soap for handwashing. While your hands are still damp, apply a moisturizing cream.
Try a non soap cleansing cream or shower gel in the shower or bath, and use soap only in areas that require it, such as the armpits and groin. Loofahs and pumice stones should be avoided. Thoroughly rinse and pat dry.
Make use of a humidifier.
Hot, dry indoor air can irritate sensitive skin and exacerbate itching and flaking. A portable humidifier or one attached to your furnace humidifies the air inside your home.
Select fabrics that are gentle on your skin.
Cotton and other natural fibers allow your skin to breathe. Wool, despite being natural, can irritate even healthy skin.
Use laundry detergents free of dyes and perfumes, which can irritate your skin. The word “free” is commonly used in the names of these products.
Itching relief.
If itching is caused by dry skin, apply a clean, cool, damp cloth to the affected area. You could also use an anti-itch cream or ointment with at least 1% hydrocortisone.
