TREAT ITCHY FACE SKIN THAT FEELS LIKE LEATHER

Environmental factors, such as exposure to dry air, as well as harsh cleansing products, can leave skin feeling dry and itchy. There are times when dry, rough skin is the result of a more serious health concern. Ichthyosis is a condition where the skin becomes dry and rough, thickens and can develop scale-like growths. People with certain health conditions, such as an underactive thyroid, HIV infection or cancer may develop ichthyosis. It is also possible to carry a gene that predisposes you to the condition. Whether you are dealing with dry, itchy, leather-like skin due to lifestyle issues or because of ichthyosis, the treatment is the same, exfoliate the skin and add moisture.

Step 1 : Minimize time in the bath and shower. Use comfortably warm, not hot, water. Avoid washing the face any more than necessary. For example, shower at night so that you can wash away any make-up or sweat from the day. In the morning, a quick, soapless rinse should be sufficient.

Step 2 Use unscented, gentle cleansers when washing.

Step 3 : Rub skin gently with a washcloth, loofah, or, in severe cases, a pumice stone. This will exfoliate older, dry skin responsible for that leather-like feel.

Step 4 : Apply lotion to damp skin to seal in moisture. Products containing alpha hydroxy acid, such as lactic acid, or urea, add moisture to the skin and speed exfoliation.

Step 5 : Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.

Step 6 : Relieve itching by using a damp washcloth as a cool compress for your face. Creams containing 1 percent hydrocortisone also provides relief.

Step 7 : Drink plenty of water, herbal tea and other caffeine-free beverages to hydrate skin from the inside out.

TIPS AND WARNINGSVisit your doctor if dryness doesn't improve, the itching affects your quality of life or you develop open sores or large areas of peeling skin.

THINGS YOU'LL NEED
  • Gentle cleanser
  • Washcloth or other exfoliator
  • Moisturizer
  • Humidifier
  • Hydrocortisone cream