Dry, itchy skin and dry skin on legs are among some of the top skincare concerns that many people experience. You can blame it on genetic makeup or your laziness to keep your skin moisturised, but there are also habits that you might be doing that are aggravating the problem. Here’s a list for you to check off.
1. Stop using shower foam
Hey, don’t make that face! We’re not asking you to stop showering with a body cleanser altogether. Hear us out!
You probably know that the foaming agents (especially SLS) found in your facial cleansers are drying to your facial skin and this is why those with dry skin are usually asked to avoid foam cleansers. The same theory can be applied to our body skin. Most of us use a shower foam, which actually aggravates dry, itchy skin. While there’s no way you can avoid using a body cleanser during showers, go for an alternative that would not strip your skin of its natural moisture.
Do this instead: Here’s the alternative – shower oil. Oils (face oil, cleansing oil, and so on) have been creating a buzz in the beauty world, and for good reason. Oils actually have great affinity with our skin and their luxurious formula is nourishing while keeping our skin’s natural moisture intact. Shower oil, in particular, is more moisturising than any regular shower foam. Just like why we love oil cleansers for our face, shower oil is able to attach itself to impurities and grime and then lift them away, without leaving our skin feeling dry and itchy. It is recommended for all skin types, including and especially those with sensitive skin, ezcema, and dry, itchy skin.
Try: L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil. This product was first invented in 2004 and has gone on to become an international best-seller of the French brand, which is best known for their expert use of essential oils. The L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil is suitable for daily use and has a 2-in-1 formula that cleanses and moisturises at the same time – exactly what those with dry and itchy skin need. You’ll also be pleased to know that it is made up of 81% natural origin ingredients, which means more natural goodness for your irritated skin. Simply apply the luxurious shower oil all over your body and indulge in its nourishing texture. Then, watch its golden formula transform into a milky lotion as it touches water. You’ll notice that your skin feels more moisturised and your dry and itchy skin relieved. As a bonus, you’ll also find shower time more pampering than before!
Find out more about the Almond Shower Oil and what it does for you.
2. Hot water is comforting but bad for dry skin
We know what it’s like to jump into a hot shower after a tiring day – very comforting! But hot water isn’t your best friend. It strips your skin of its natural oils is one of the reasons why you’re suffering from dry, itchy skin.
Do this instead: It’s best to keep your shower water at a lukewarm temperature of approximately 35 to 38 degree Celsius. Take note also that even if you shower under lukewarm water, long showers can similarly strip your skin of its moisture. So remember, everything in moderation!
Try: Installing a digital LED display to measure the temperature of your shower water. There are several options available on online stores like Qoo10 and Lazada that you can easily install onto your shower fittings and most of them don’t even require batteries to run (they operate using kinetic energy from the water). This way, you’ll be able to keep track of the temperature of water when you shower and adjust it accordingly.
3. Don’t miss the best time to moisturise
Since you’re suffering from dry and itchy skin, we’re sure you’re already using some form of body moisturiser to help relieve the problem. However, do you know what’s the best time to apply your moisturiser? If you typically apply it right before bed-time or first thing when you wake up, then it’s time to re-think your routine.
Do this instead: The best time to moisturise is immediately after a shower. This is when your pores are slightly opened from the warmth of the water, and it’s slightly moist. Moist skin helps with better penetration of moisturiser so you can enjoy the full benefits of your product.
4. Take special care when you shave
A huge culprit that causes dry skin on legs – shaving. Abrasion from shaving (whether you’re using a razor or an epilator) irritate skin and leave it feeling dry and itchy. If you regularly shave your legs and find that you have especially dry skin on legs, then shaving may be the reason for it.
Do this instead: Don’t shave or epilate on a dry surface, instead, either apply a shaving cream or do it while in the shower so that there’s a form of lubrication while you’re removing hair. At the same time, adopt the habit of moisturising right after shaving to soothe your skin from the irritation it has been put through.
Try: Malin+Goetz Vitamin E Shaving Cream. This is great even on the most sensitive skin, thanks to its formulation of chamomile, allantoin, menthol, vitamin E, and shea butter. All these ingredients help soothe, cool, and moisturise skin. The best part about it is that it doesn’t leave behind a greasy sensation, which is important especially in the humid Singapore weather. This is available at the Malin+Goetz website.
5. Avoid tight fitting outfits
While we love skinny jeans and leggings, the friction that comes from the fabric of these snug-fitting clothing can do our skin harm. If you’re suffering from dry, itchy skin or dry skin on your legs, you may want to take a look at your wardrobe and see if it may be the culprit.
Do this instead: If you realise that you own lots of snug-fitting clothes that can cause abrasion on your skin and trap sweat, causing discomfort, you may need to consider a change in wardrobe. Invest in airy and smooth fabric such as silk and consider swapping your pencil skirts for flowing midi skirts. You can wear clothes that aren’t as snug but still don’t look like a bore!
