As we age, the potential of the skin for hydration and maintaining its moisture levels reduces, and this can lead to dry and flaky skin. To keep such problems at bay, regularly moisturizing the skin is an important step.

People with dehydrated or dry skin should avoid the heat, hot showers, arid climates, and harsh soaps as they act as triggers to further dry and irritate the skin. Home remedies come in handy to redress dry skin symptoms and are effective for skin hydration.

Listed below are some things you can do to help resolve the issues of dehydrated skin and help increase skin hydration:

  • Coconut oil
    Coconut oil has miraculous properties that are known to improvise and hydrate the skin, making it soft and supple, and it also helps improve skin texture. Coconut oil has natural saturated fatty acids that help smoothen the skin. It is gentle and can also be applied to the most sensitive areas of the body and face.
  • Petroleum jelly
    Petroleum jelly is a mixture of waxes and mineral oils, and the water-protective layer of the jelly forms a barrier that seals in moisture, enabling skin hydration. Petroleum jelly is highly effective in keeping the skin moist, and it also helps in healing cracked feet, chapped lips, and dry skin.
  • Oatmeal baths
    Oatmeal is an ancient and common home remedy for dehydrated skin. Infused with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it is said to be effective for skin hydration and reduces irritation and dryness. An oatmeal scrub can be prepared at home by mixing oatmeal powder with warm water. The scrub can be used for the face as well as the whole body.
  • Antioxidants and Omega 3
    There are certain foods that are enriched with antioxidants and help reduce skin damage. Foods with Omega 3 oils help retain moisture in the skin. Some fruits and vegetables that contribute to improving skin health include blueberries, carrots, tomatoes, peas, and foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids like salmon.
  • Use sunscreen
    Another important tip for skin hydration is to use sunscreen on a daily basis. Wearing loose-fitted, cotton clothes to reduce sweating when exposed to high temperatures or skin-irritating conditions can prove extremely beneficial in keeping the skin hydrated and free from irritation.
  • Avoid hot showers
    Hot showers are not recommended for people with dry skin, as it tends to extract moisture from the skin and further dehydrate it. Instead of hot showers, take short warm water showers, and use soaps that have moisturizing properties.

It is imperative to maintain skin health. Making an effective moisturizer a part of your daily skincare routine works wonders. One must always remember to use easily-available and safe-to-use home remedies. However, if the home remedies do not help, you can visit your physician or a dermatologist for appropriate treatment for your skin problems.