Dry skin is not only uncomfortable, it may also look and feel rough and develop fine lines. Staying hydrated and caring for your skin gently are important steps for avoiding dry skin, but what you put in your bath water may also help your skin retain moisture and protect it from further drying and damage. If you have severely dry skin, cracking or open sores, though, consult your health care provider before using bath additives.
Oatmeal Bath
Adding colloidal oatmeal to your bath may help moisturize your skin as well as reduce any itching. Colloidal oatmeal is oatmeal ground to a fine powder. You can buy packaged colloidal oatmeal or make your own by grinding oatmeal in a coffee grinder or blender. To prepare a bath, turn on the hot water, pour 2 cups colloidal oatmeal into the stream and allow the tub to fill. Enter the bath only once the water is lukewarm. Alternatively fill a sock with 1 cup regular, non-instant oatmeal, tie the sock closed and place it in a lukewarm bath. Soak for up to 20 minutes, rinse thoroughly, then pat your skin dry.
Essential Oils Bath
Adding certain essential oils to your bathwater may help moisturize your skin. Oils to try include chamomile, geranium, jasmine, evening primrose, rose, neroli and frankincense. Blend two or three drops each of up to three different oils with 1 tbsp. carrier oil like grape seed or almond oil. Soak in a lukewarm bath for 10 to 15 minutes, then add the oil blend. Soak for another five to 10 minutes, rinse thoroughly, then pat your skin dry.
Mechanisms
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, recognizes colloidal oatmeal as a skin protectant. A variety of compounds in the grain lend it cleansing, moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. The large amount of starches and beta-glucan in oats are what help them retain water, acting as a moisturizer. Some essential oils hold water in the skin as well as stimulate skin cell regeneration, according to aroma therapist Dr. Naresh Arora.
Preventing Over drying
To get the most from bath additives, bathe in a way that's gentle on your skin. Opt for lukewarm baths because hot water strips your skin's natural oils, causing your skin to lose moisture. For the same reason, soak for no longer than 20 minutes. To prevent over drying, avoid rubbing your skin when you towel off. After your bath, apply a moisturizer while your skin is still slightly moist.
Warnings
Some individuals may be allergic to oatmeal and may experience skin irritation after bathing with any type of oatmeal or oatmeal bath product. If you're unsure how you'll react to oatmeal, ask your health care about an allergy test. Similarly, some essential oils may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Before bathing with any essential oil, apply 1 or 2 drops of the oil to the inside of your elbow and wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions. Because some essential oils may affect hormone levels, if you're pregnant or nursing, consult a health care provider before bathing with essential oils.
Comments
Post a Comment