Author: Patricia Bratianu RN PhD RH-AHG

Our skin is our largest organ. It provides our first line of defense from toxins, injury, and solar radiation. It also provides a barrier to infection. The skin is not a solid barrier, but a permeable one. What we put on our skin is as important as the food we eat. The products that we use on our skin need to nourish the skin’s layers in order to keep this valuable organ in tip top condition. Healthy, glowing skin can make a person look young and vibrant.

Many people suffer from dry skin. Dry skin is fragile and is prone to wrinkling. It may also be itchy and tight feeling.

Here are seven tips and ingredients that prevent and heal dry skin.

Drink lots of water. Skin needs hydration to plump up cells and look vibrant. Alcohol and caffeinated drinks are dehydrating so avoid or minimize your consumption of them.

Protect your skin from the elements. Use a broad spectrum sun block. Exposure to the radiation of the sun dries skin out quickly. Remember that wind and cold air also dry the skin. Keep your skin covered if the weather is harsh.

Consume foods that are rich in omega -3 and omega- 7 fatty acids.  Nuts, whole grains, flax seed, and vegetable oils are excellent sources of omega rich nutrients. They are needed for skin repair and promote a smooth, supple complexion. Consider using an internal supplement such as flax, borage, evening primrose or sea buck thorn oil for additional benefits.

Use skin care products that contain antioxidants. They prevent skin damage from the elements and aging. Green tea, resveratrol, and red tea are natural ingredients that are rich in antioxidants.

Be sure that your skin care products contain natural, nourishing oils. Apricot kernel oil is luxurious and rich in vitamins A and B. It is great for people with sensitive, dry skin. Jojoba oil is actually a wax.  Jojoba is a fine ingredient as it absorbs easily and benefits mature skin. An outstanding oil for dry skin is squalene oil, which is found naturally in human skin. The squalene used in cosmetics is derived from olive oil. Squalene provides a moisture barrier for skin to help retain moisture.

Give yourself an avocado facial as a special skin treat. Simply mash a peeled, seeded avocado and apply to freshly washed skin. Lie down, with your feet up, and eyes closed for at least twenty minutes. Rinse off and moisturize with your usual moisturizing product.

If your environment is dry, try misting your skin with rose water. It feels refreshing and provides moisture. Rose water balances pH which helps prevent skin injury and further dryness.

The above remedies will make your skin moist and radiant. Using ingredients that are nourishing to your skin will make you look and feel vibrant and youthful.