subject: Effective Treatments For Dry Flaky Skin On Lower Legs [print this page] Dry skin on the lower legs is pretty common. This can be attributed to various factors such as age, lifestyle, weather, harsh detergents or it can even be a medical condition. During winters when the air dries out, the skin on legs also dries out. Harsh winds, brisk cold air and indoor heating, especially in countries like Canada, can aggravate the problem. While this poses to be a problem more during winter months, for some people, it can be a problem all year round. However, with the right kind of skin care regimen or treatment, this can be alleviated and cured. And legs can be flaunted during the shorts season.
Harsh chemicals in shower and bathing gels and hot water strip the skin of moisture thus resulting in dry flaky skin. Using lukewarm warm and mild liquid cleansers while showering help to reduce dryness of skin. Skin also tends to become drier with age. Dry skin or Xerosis can lead to flaking and itching. While Xerosis is not a serious malady, it can be unattractive and uncomfortable. Fortunately, this can be treated at home using simple remedies or in spas for more acute conditions. There are a lot of spa treatments in Vancouver offering such treatment.
Effective Remedies
Moisturizing Creams and Ointments
Using thick, greasy creams for moisturizing the lower legs work wonders for dry, flaking skin, unlike lotions which tend to contain alcohol and dry out the skin. For severe dryness and scales on the lower legs creams with vitamin A, salicylic acid and urea can be very effective, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.
Trap in Moisture
After applying a moisturizer, one can apply petroleum jelly or a mineral oil to trap moisture. These pure lubricants are inexpensive and just as effective as commercial moisturizers. Moisturizing the legs right after a shower or bath when the skin is still a little damp helps to trap water into the surface skin cells.
Bathing Recommendations
It is best to bathe in lukewarm water to fight dry, flaky skin. Also, the time spent in water should be brief. One shouldnt spend more than 15 minutes in cleansing the body. Long baths and showers deplete the skin of oils and cause even more dryness.
Choosing the Right Cleanser
Mild cleansing creams or soaps with added moisturizers are recommended for skin that is dry and flaky. Antibacterial detergents can be too abrasive and leave already dry skin feeling rough. Dermatologists suggest laundering clothes in detergents that are perfume and dye free.
Oatmeal
According to some experts, oatmeal can help treat dry skin. Colloidal oatmeal, meaning it has been ground into a powder that will float in water, should be used. One can add two cups of colloidal oatmeal to a bath of lukewarm water. Or, use oatmeal in place of soap.
Sunscreen
Applying sunscreen liberally to all exposed areas 30 minutes before heading outdoors may prevent further dryness.
Humidifier
Hot air can exacerbate dry skin, making flaking worse. To combat this, a portable humidifier can be run. A humidifier increases the moisture content in the air, soothing dry skin.
One can follow these simple remedies or opt for spa treatments. In Vancouver a host of skin care centers offer specific treatment for dry skin in lower legs.
If dry skin on lower legs is persistent, becomes red or covers a very large area it could be a sign of infection and one may require medical treatment. Doctors may prescribe creams containing hydrocortisone or other steroids to aid in skin healing. Psoriasis sufferers may also benefit from ultraviolet light therapy and from application of coal tar to the skin. Experimental treatments for psoriasis and eczema include medications that suppress the immune system.
by: Stella Richard
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