Your Care Instructions

Dry skin is a common problem, especially in areas where the air is very dry. Dry skin can also become a problem as you get older and lose natural oils that keep your skin moist.

A tendency toward dry, itchy skin may run in families. Some problems with the body's defences (immune system), allergies, or an infection with a fungus may also cause patches of dry skin.

An over-the-counter cream may help your dry skin. If your skin problem does not get better with home treatment, your doctor may prescribe ointment. You may need antibiotics if you have a skin infection.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Showers and baths

• Keep showers and baths short, and use warm or lukewarm water. Don't use hot water. It takes off more of your skin's natural oils.
• Choose a mild skin cleanser like Cetaphil.
• If you are taking a bath, use a skin cleanser at the very end. Then rinse off with fresh water. Gently pat your skin dry with a towel.

Skin creams and moisturizers

• Apply moisturizer or skin cream right away (within 3 minutes) after a bath or shower. Use a moisturizer at other times too, as often as you need it.
• Moisturizing creams are better than lotions. Try brands like Cetaphil cream or Eucerin lotion.

Other tips

• When washing clothes, use a small amount of detergent. Don't use fabric softeners or dryer sheets.
• For small areas of itchy skin, try an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream.
• If you have very dry hands, spread petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) on your hands before bed. Wear thin cotton gloves while you sleep. If your feet are dry, spread Vaseline on them and wear socks while you sleep.