Dry and itchy skin often causes discomfort. This skin problem can be caused by various things, from choosing the wrong soap to certain skin diseases. However, you don't need to worry, because dry and itchy skin can be treated in various ways.
Dry skin generally occurs when the outermost layer of skin (epidermis) lacks natural fluids and oils. This skin condition can appear anywhere on the body, but is more common on the arms, hands, and feet.
When it feels dry, the skin will become more sensitive and itchy easily. Sometimes, dry skin can also cause other complaints, such as the appearance of rashes or sores on the skin.
Handling Dry and Itchy Skin
Dry and itchy skin often makes people who experience it feel disturbed. However, there are several ways to deal with dry and itchy skin that can be done, including:
1. Use moisturizer regularly
If you have dry and itchy skin, don't forget to always apply moisturizer right after showering, washing your face, or washing your hands. Moisturizer works to keep moisture in the skin so it doesn't get lost easily.
Choose a moisturizer that does not contain irritating substances, such as perfumes and dyes, to avoid irritation.
2. Using a cold compress
If the itching due to dry skin is getting more and more annoying, you can compress the problem skin with a cloth that has been soaked in cold water. Giving this cold compress can also prevent you from scratching your itchy skin too often.
3. Choosing the right bath soap
Bath soaps that contain deodorants and fragrances generally contain ingredients that can strip the skin of moisture, which can cause dry and itchy skin.
Therefore, it is recommended that you choose a bath soap product made from mild and unscented. You should also choose a soap that is labeled hypoallergenic, if you have sensitive skin.
Also, don't shower too often and limit bath time to at least 10-15 minutes. You can also try a milk bath to overcome this complaint. Also try to take a shower using cold or warm water. Bathing too often and using water that is too hot can reduce skin moisture.
4. Using a humidifier (humidifier)
Frequent activities in air-conditioned rooms can also cause dry skin. To fix this, you can use a humidifier to humidify the air and prevent dry skin. In addition, this tool can also prevent the recurrence of skin allergy symptoms, for example due to exposure to dust.
5. Stop smoking habits
Not only affects the health of the body's organs, smoking can also cause the skin to become dry and rough. This is because smoking can make blood flow less smooth. Exposure to secondhand smoke can also exacerbate eczema symptoms, making the skin more prone to dryness and itching.
6. Maintain the cleanliness of the house and the surrounding environment
Itchy and dry skin is often caused by a dirty environment. The amount of dust and small insects, such as mites, can be one of the causes of dry and itchy skin. Therefore, it is recommended that you always keep your body and living environment clean.
If the dry and itchy skin that you experience has interfered with your activities, immediately consult a doctor. To overcome this, doctors will usually give anti-itch medications, such as antihistamines or ointments that contain menthol or calamine.
Although it looks mild, dry and itchy skin conditions should not be taken lightly. If your dry and itchy skin does not improve within 2 weeks or signs of infection appear on the skin, which is characterized by redness, swelling, and pus, immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.