Natural Remedies for Dry Itchy Skin

Dry, itchy skin can be more than just a pesky problem; it can be downright miserable. Discover natural solutions for dry skin that will nourish and hydrate your skin in a healthy way. Excellent skin care doesn't have to cost a fortune, nor does it require a complicated regimen. Use these simple natural remedies to get the silky smooth skin you've been longing for.

In the Bath

• Dry, irritated skin can often be the result of too much acidity. Balance your skin's pH naturally by sprinkling 1 cup dry colloidal oatmeal into your bath. Soak in an oatmeal bath once or twice a week to soothe and soften your skin.

Moisturize

• To deeply moisturize your skin, look to emollient oils and butters such as sweet almond oil, avocado oil, shea butter, cocoa butter or olive oil. For intensely dry skin, try castor oil. Apply the oil of your choice to damp skin---mmediately after your bath or shower is ideal--and massage gently into your skin, concentrating on the areas that are the most dry and itchy. Repeat this moisturizing routine daily.

  For dry, itchy hands, soak them in an oatmeal bath for 5 to 10 minutes and then massage them with a 6 drops of Vitamin E oil and 1/2 tbsp. of castor oil. Slip your hands into protective gloves and allow the oils to absorb for several hours (or overnight). Repeat this process nightly, or as needed.

Other Considerations

• Protect your hands from harsh winds and weather conditions by wearing gloves or mittens when outdoors.

  Remember to stay fully hydrated. Drink six to eight glasses of water daily.

  Consider bathing every other day--rather than every day--to allow your body's natural oils to maintain healthy skin.