Many people struggle with dry, dehydrated skin that can be itchy and irritating. Throw in the fact that dryness makes fine lines and wrinkles more noticeable and that’s all the motivation we need to do something about it. Dry skin is not an option. So, what can we do?

Dry skin conditions are more common in the colder climates, but, some of us, suffer from dry skin year-round. To moisturize dry skin, it’s important to lock in our body’s natural moisture. If our skin becomes extremely dry it can develop little cracks and if severe enough, these cracks can become an entry point for germs and bacteria. These germs can lead to illness and infection. Keeping our skin hydrated is important in keeping our body healthy.

Here are a few ways to turn dry, wrinkly looking skin into soft, more youthful looking skin.

Choose the Right Cleanser

Dry skin needs a cleanser that contains ingredients known to moisturize. The gentler the cleanser, the less harsh on the skin. Look for facial cleansers that target dry skin. They’re usually richer, creamier and lotion-like in texture. Look for ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and soothing Aloe Vera. Avoid harsh bar soaps with strong detergents, deodorizers, and fragrances. Don’t use these on your face and be selective when using them on the body.

Tip: Cleanse using only warm water. Water that’s too hot causes skin to become even dryer. Limit baths & showers to just a few minutes. The longer you bathe, the greater the chances of your skin drying out. Prolonged exposure to water, especially hot water, can strip the skin of its natural oils.

Moisturize Your Skin from Head to Toe

Nothing says Ahhhh to dry skin like a good dose of moisturizer. For the face, consider adding a moisturizing serum containing Antioxidant Vitamins to your skin care regimen.  Did you know CBD oil is packed with Antioxidant Vitamins? Follow with a lotion with SPF during the day, and night cream in the evening. These products will help hydrate your skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines. For the body, slather on body lotion immediately after showering while skin is still damp and most accepting to your moisturizers. It will help seal in water as well as your body’s natural oils. Focus on elbows, knees, and feet, as these areas really showcase dryness.

Invest in a Humidifier

In the wintertime, humidifiers are a must for those of us with dry skin—but they are also great to have year-round. A cool mist vaporizer will help your skin out tremendously. Keep one in your bedroom to help your skin while you sleep. And, keep one on your desk during the day to really combat the effects of dry skin.

Tip: If you don’t have a humidifier, keep a simmering pot of hot water on your stove top to produce the same effect.

Give Yourself a Good Scrubbing

Exfoliating can really help your skin retain moisture. A good scrubbing removes the dead and dying skin cells from the surface, revealing new healthy skin cells beneath. When skin is exfoliated, it allows your skin care products, especially serums and moisturizers, to absorb more quickly and effectively. So, to combat dry skin, scrub away!

Hydrate from the Inside

Stay hydrated by drinking good old H2O. Coffee, soda, and juice—they don’t count. Drink water to stay hydrated from the inside out and to keep your skin looking healthy. If you don’t believe that water can help your skin, think again. Ever see a droopy, lifeless plant? Give it some water and, voila! It pops back to life and looks younger as well. So, drink up!

Little changes to your daily routine can definitely help alleviate the signs of dry skin. Keep your skin hydrated and protected 24/7. And remember, the healthiest skin is always the most beautiful.