If you’re having trouble sorting through selection at the drugstore, try looking for products designed for babies. They are typically much milder and are often fragrance and dye-free.
Cream-based moisturizers are particularly effective at hydrating skin. [2] X Expert Source Mohiba Tareen, MDBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 26 March 2020. Products with ceramide and hyaluronic acid will help your skin retain moisture. [3] X Research source www. webmd. com/beauty/dry-skin-13/dry-skin-causes?page=2 Products with dimethicone and glycerin are useful for drawing water to the skin. [4] X Research source www. webmd. com/beauty/dry-skin-13/dry-skin-causes?page=2 Products with lanolin, mineral oil, and/or petroleum jelly are also recommended and are excellent at helping you retain water. [5] X Research source www. webmd. com/beauty/dry-skin-13/dry-skin-causes?page=2 Look for lotions with lactic acid; beyond moisturizing your elbows, the lactic acid gently exfoliates your flaky skin. [6] X Research source www. webmd. com/beauty/dry-skin-13/dry-skin-causes?page=2
Use yogurt on your elbows. Yogurt is high in lactic acid, which will gently help exfoliate your flaky skin. Greek variety yogurt is particularly thick and concentrated. Leave on your elbows for up to 15 minutes. [8] X Research source Try using organic honey on your ailing elbows, which has long been lauded as an excellent remedy for dry chapped skin. You can mix the honey with your yogurt spread (above), or apply straight to your elbows. [9] X Research source Treat your elbows with lemon. The citric acid in lemon can work to lighten the dark and dry skin on your elbows, and will also help to gently exfoliate. [10] X Research source Use natural food oils, like olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil as a moisturizer. Apply these straight to your elbows for a long-acting dose of moisture.
Experts recommend you resist the urge to crank up the heat when the temperature outside falls. Keep the temperature slightly cooler, at 68 degrees. [11] X Research source
In order to maintain your skin’s natural protecting oils, it’s best to keep your water temperature on the cooler side. Try to keep your bathing time as short as possible, 5-10 minutes top. [14] X Research source
Wear natural fibers, such as cotton, and avoid synthetic fabrics which may be irritating. Wool, while a natural fiber, can often be irritating to the skin, so you may want to avoid shirts and sweaters spun from wool, regardless of their wintry appeal.
Fish such as salmon, halibut, and sardines are excellent sources of Omega-3. Walnuts, safflower oil and flaxseed are similarly good sources of Omega-3 and are relatively easy to add to your diet. Before making any changes to your diet or taking fish-oil supplements, you should of course consult with your physician.
