If you suffer from really dry, itchy skin all over your body, the habits you have daily might be worsening the effects and symptoms. Surprisingly, most skin care experts will tell you to avoid all types of lotions if you have dry skin. While this may seem strange, because lotion is supposed to moisturize skin, lotions actually can dry skin out. Here are some tips to help you effectively treat and relieve the dry skin you have on your body.

Avoid Lotions

Lotions are designed to moisturize your skin; however, they can have the opposite effect for several different reasons:

1. They contain alcohol – Lotion often contains alcohol, which is a common ingredient in skin care products. The problem with this is that alcohol is designed to degrease the skin, and it does this by drying it out. If you are using a lotion that contains alcohol, there is a good chance this lotion is worsening your dry skin problems.
2. They contain scents – One nice part about lotion is its scent, but this scent can actually irritate the skin. The ingredients used to make lotions smell good are known for causing irritation to the skin, and this is why you should always use an unscented type if you are going to use lotion.
3. Your body may start reacting differently – Most lotions contain water, lipid, and protein. When you continually apply lotion to your skin, your skin may start reacting negatively to it. If this happens, your skin will actually start blocking the delivery of water. The end result of this is dry skin.

Most lotions will cause more harm than good, but there are other options that can actually help moisturize your dry skin.

Use Ointments, Oils, Or Creams

Ointments, oils, and creams are three different types of skin care products that can actually relieve dry skin problems and help restore your skin so it is smoother, hydrated, and less itchy. These products often contain one or more of the following ingredients, which are all great for actually adding moisture to the skin:

• Jojoba oil
• Olive oil
• Coconut oil
• Shea butter
• Lactic acid
• Glycerin
• Petroleum
• Lanolin

Using any type of cream, oil, or ointment is the best way to keep your skin hydrated. The benefit of using an ointment is that it probably contains some type of medication. Ointments can be greasy, but the medication can really soothe and heal your skin. If your skin is extremely dry right now, it might be wise to start off using an ointment until your skin heals a little.

Any type of oil or cream can also help, because these products are designed to lock in your skin's hydration. While these products can also be greasy, they can make a huge difference in the way your skin looks and feels.

In addition, these types of products are long lasting. This means that after you apply one of these to your skin, it will remain there for hours. It will not wear off, and this means it will continue working to help your skin heal.

It's also important to know that you can seek professional help for dry skin. If you visit a clinic or spa, like Changes Of Cherry Creek/ Denver's Day Spa, that offers skin care services, they can provide you with several different options for treating your dry skin. The options they have are professional strength and will make a huge difference with your skin.

If you are tired of having dry, itchy skin and want to find relief, you should contact a clinic today to learn more about the available options for treating dry skin issues.