JACKSON, MISS– Drier air may make for a great day outside, but it may be a bad day for your skin.
Dr. Robert Brodell, dermatologist with University of Mississippi Medical Center says even though Mississippi usually has a pretty humid and moisture-rich environment, the changes can still cause dry skin in some, and drier skin for those who already suffer with the condition.
“It’s very important that we take care of our skin,” says Brodell, “the most important thing is a good moisturizer that you love and use. If you don’t like it, you won’t use it.”
Brodell says that while dry skin isn’t a dangerous condition initially, it can lead to complications if the skin gets too dry; cracking, itching, and peeling can get so bad that it becomes debilitating.
“Especially if it’s on the palms and soles of the feet,” says Brodell.
So what do you do? Brodell says avoid bathing more than once a day, as that dries out your skin.
“People tend to believe that if your skin is wet, then it has moisture,” says Brodell, “but in the shower, you’re actually washing away those oils.”
Brodell says what you use in the shower makes a huge difference as well.
“Use a mild soap, fragrance-free,” says Brodell. He recommends CetaPhil or CeraVe.
And finally, using a lotion or moisturizer as soon as you get out of the shower, all over the body, can be beneficial as well.
But if you’re constantly having dry skin, and it is painful, give your dermatologist a call.
