| Causes | Home Remedies | Additional Tips |
Does your skin look parched and feels like it will tear apart any moment? Do you experience redness, itching and the need to apply a moisturizer every now and then? Well, we are here to help you! Maintaining dry skin can be really challenging, especially in extreme weather conditions like summer or winter. Fortunately, there are many home remedies for dry skin to our rescue, which offer instant relief from the symptoms.
These methods use natural ingredients that soothe your dry and itchy skin, along with replenishing the moisture levels. With regular usage, you can notice a reduced dryness and a visibly soft and supple skin. Read along to learn about these best natural remedies for dry skin.
What Causes Dry Skin?
Dry skin may not be a serious problem, but its symptoms can give us great discomfort. Dryness is caused due to lack of enough moisture in the skin, which leads to flakes, cracks, fine lines, stretchy feeling, itching, redness etc. Here are some of the major contributors for dry skin:
- Hereditary: Dry skin can be inherited from your parents or any of your family members.
- Weather: Dryness is experienced commonly during Winters and dry summers when the humidity levels in the air go down.
- Prolonged Sun Exposure: When skin is exposed to the UV rays of the sun, its outer layer gets destroyed and gets dehydrated.
- Hot Water Baths: Pouring very hot water on your skin can instantly lower the moisture levels in your skin and cause excessive dryness.
- Soaps and Detergents: Harsh chemicals used soaps and detergents strip away moisture and essential oils from your skin, leading to dryness.
- Age: As we age, the oil glands present in our skin go inactive and cause dry and saggy skin.
- Frequent Contact with Water: If you are exposed to water frequently or go swimming in chlorine water, you could very likely develop dry skin.
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15 Best Home Remedies for Dry Skin
The following are some of the best home remedies for dry skin. Each of these remedies are natural and effective in treating your rough and dry skin. Let’s jump straight on to the list.
1. Olive Oil and Sugar Scrub:
One of the popular home remedies for dry skin on face in Olive Oil and Sugar exfoliant. Olive oil is a natural humectant that increases the moisture levels in your skin. According to a study, Olive oil has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which repair your skin barrier and protects your from symptoms like rashes, redness and irritation due to dryness(1). Essential vitamins like E and K firm up your skin and delays aging signs.
Adding a few granules of sugar can buff away the dead cells and reveal smooth, polished skin.
Ingredients:
- Olive Oil – 2 tbsp
- Sugar –1 Tbsp
Directions:
- Combine Sugar with olive oil.
- Apply it on clean, dry skin.
- Massage in circular movements for 2 minutes.
- Leave it on for an additional 5 minutes.
- Wash off with cool water.
For Better Results: Repeat it twice or thrice a week.
Caution: Sugar may have an abrasive effect on sensitive skin. Please use this treatment with care.
2. Aloe Vera Gel for Dry Skin:
If you are looking for simple homemade remedies for dry skin, you simply cannot miss out Aloe vera. This spiky plant can make for an excellent DIY moisturizer and gets easily absorbed by the skin. According to research, Aloe vera contains Mucopolysacchiridesthat bind moisture to the skin, improve collagen levels and make the skin more elastic and hydrated(2). With regular use, Aloe vera can also control irritation, redness and other symptoms of dry skin.
Ingredients:
- Aloe vera Leaf – 1 Medium-sized.
Directions:
- Slice the aloe leaf vertically.
- Scoop out the gel using a spoon.
- Wash it with water and blend it to form a smooth paste.
- Apply it on your face and leave it for 30 minutes.
- Wash off with water.
How Often You do This: Every day until symptoms subside.
Caution: Aloe is known to cause allergic reactions in some people. Be sure to do a patch test.
3. Cucumber for Dry Skin:
Cucumber is a natural treatment for dry skin that offers instant relief from symptoms of thirsty skin. It contains 90% water, which is just what dry and dehydrated skin needs. It is also known that skin creams that contain cucumber extracts offer better moisturization and improvement of skin sebum levels compared to other emollients(3). The anti-inflammatory properties of this agent treat skin irritations and itchiness.
Ingredients:
- Cucumber Pulp –2 tbsp.
- Aloe vera Gel – 2 tbsp.
Directions:
- Mix both the ingredients to form a smooth paste.
- Apply it all over your face and neck.
- Leave it on for 25 minutes.
- Wash with water.
For Better Results: This process should be repeated two times a week.
Caution: No known side effects of this remedy.
4. Papaya and Honey for Dry Skin:
Wondering how to cure dry skin on face naturally? Try Papaya and Honey mask! This delicious duo can offer quick relief from dryness and irritation. Papaya contain an enzyme called Papain, which can remove the dead cells from skin and unclog your pores. Adding honey, a natural humectant and moisturizer to Papaya nourishes your skin within and gives a healthy glow
Ingredients:
- Papaya – ¼ Cup.
- Honey – 2 tbsp.
- Cream or Milk – 1 tbsp (optional).
Directions:
- Make a paste with all the above ingredients.
- Apply it evenly on clean and dry skin.
- Leave it for 30 minutes.
- Wash off with water.
For Better Results: For best results, repeat it once or twice a week.
Caution: No major side effects of this treatment.
[ Read More: Best Homemade Face Packs For Dry Skin ]
5. Almond Oil for Dry Skin:
Almond oil is one of the age-old home remedies for dry skin in winter. The emollient properties of this oil can treat dry skin problems and offer relief from eczema, psoriasis etc. Vitamin E present in this oil can protect your skin from harmful UV radiation which causes dryness. This agent also nourishes your skin and make it smooth.
Ingredients:
- Sweet Almond oil – 5-6 drops.
Directions:
- Apply sweet almond oil all over face and neck.
- Massage for 5 minutes.
- Leave it overnight.
- Wash it off the next morning.
For Better Results: Do this every night, especially during winters.
Caution: No major risks with this treatment.
6. Coconut Oil for Dry Skin:
Coconut oil is one of the most inexpensive home remedies for dry skin. This natural antioxidant can fight free radicals and prevent oxidative stress on the skin. Furthermore, studies confirm that Coconut oil is effective in treating mild to moderate dryness of skin with its numerous Fatty acids like lauric, oleic etc(4). With regular usage, coconut oil can significantly improve the moisture levels in your skin and help you cope with dry skin symptoms.
Ingredients:
- Cold Pressed Coconut Oil – 2tbsp.
Directions:
- Apply coconut oil on your face and neck.
- Leave for 10-15 minutes before taking a bath.
For Better Results: You can do this twice a day for best results.
Caution: No major side effects are known.
[ Read More: Multani Mitti Face Packs For Dry Skin ]
7. Banana for Dry Skin:
Bananas work as excellent home remedies for skin dryness. These tropical fruits contain key nutrients like Potassium and Vitamin A which hydrate your skin and prevent moisture loss. Vitamin A helps in improving the elasticity of the skin to give you a smooth appearance. Vitamin E, a natural antioxidant present in Bananas can scavenge free radicals, while amino acids strengthen your skin layer and improve elasticity.
Ingredients:
- Ripe Banana – 1
- Honey – 1 Dollop
Directions:
- Mash banana well and mix some honey.
- Apply this paste on clean, dry skin.
- Leave it for 25 minutes.
- Wash off with water.
For Better Results: Twice a week.
Caution: No major side effects of this remedy.
8. Egg Yolk Remedy for Dry Skin:
Egg yolk is a best natural care for dry skin which can lock in moisture and give you soft, glowing skin. The yolk part is made up of important amino acids which repair your skin tissues and promote elasticity. Vitamin A, also called Retinol present in this ingredient, hydrates your skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles due to dryness. Other nutrients like Zinc, Vitamin B3 etc. delay the natural ageing process of the skin and make it look younger.
Ingredients:
- Egg Yolk – 1
- Olive Oil – 1 tbsp
Directions:
- Beat egg yolk and whisk well.
- Add olive oil to this mixture.
- Apply it on clean, dry skin.
- Leave it on for 20-25 minutes.
- Wash off with water.
For Better Results: Twice a week.
9. Milk Powder for Dry Skin:
Milk powder is a natural cure for dry skin. It is a dehydrated version of liquid milk and has a higher concentration of vitamins and minerals. Milk powder contains lactic acid which has moisturizing effects on skin and boosts collagen levels at the same time. This agent is also beneficial in lightening the pigmentation on the skin and smoothening out the wrinkles caused by excessive dryness.
Ingredients:
- Milk Powder – 2 tbsp.
- Honey – 1 tbsp.
- Water – to mix.
Directions:
- Make a thin paste out of milk powder, honey and water.
- Apply it evenly on the skin.
- Leave it for 30 minutes.
- Wash off with water.
For Better Results: Twice a week for best results.
Caution: No known side effects of this remedy.
10. Avocado for Dry Skin:
Avocado is a must-try home remedy for dry skin in winters. It is laden with fatty acids like Linoleic acid, Oleic acid etc. and vitamins like A, C, D and E that treat dry and chapped skin to intense moisturization(5). The anti-inflammatory properties of Avocado oil can repair the damage caused to dryness. This Oil is usually available in stores, while Avocado pulp can be easily made at home by following the below steps:
Ingredients:
- Avocado – half slice.
- Honey – 1 tbsp.
Directions:
- Scoop out the pulp from Avocado.
- Mash it properly and add a little honey.
- Apply it evenly on face.
- Leave it to dry for 30 minutes.
- Wash off with water.
For Better Results: Twice a week.
Caution: No major side effects of this treatment
[ See More: Best Fruits For Dry Skin ]
11. Glycerine for Dry Skin:
Glycerine or Glycerol is one of the most effective dry skin home remedies. Studies also show that Glycerine is a potent humectant that offers intense moisturization to the skin and keeps it hydrated for long(6). It also repairs your skin and reduces the formation of cracks, dry patches and fine lines. By maintaining water levels, Glycerine boosts your skin health and make it appear visibly younger and smoother.
Ingredients:
- Glycerine–2 tbsp.
- Rose Water – 1 tbsp.
Directions:
- Mix Glycerine with rose water.
- Apply it all over your skin.
- Leave it overnight.
For Better Results: Use it every day.
Caution: Glycerine might give allergic reactions in some people.
[ Read More: Rose Water Benefits For Skin ]
12. Yoghurt for Dry Skin Treatment:
It is not a surprise that dry skin feels really sensitive. Therefore, using any kind of abrasive scrub will make matters worse. But using Yoghurt as a natural dry skin remedy removes all the dead cells from the skin without harming it. It will also keep your skin moisturized. Yogurt contains lactic acid which acts as an exfoliant and an intense moisturizer.
Ingredients:
- Yoghurt – 2 tbsp.
- Honey – 1 tbsp.
Directions:
- Mix honey and yoghurt and stir well.
- Apply it to your face and massage for 1-2 minutes.
- Leave it on for an additional 10 minutes.
- Wash it with cold water.
For Better Results: Do it every alternate day.
Caution: No major side effects of this treatment.
13. Cocoa Powder for Dry Skin:
Another surprising home remedy for dry skin is Cocoa powder. Loaded with antioxidants, Cocoa powder can scavenge free radicals and promote healthy, glowing skin. Cocoa powder is also known to improve moisture levels in the skin and prevent dryness symptoms. It also works as a mild scrub to buff away the dead particles and improve blood circulation in the skin.
Ingredients:
- Cocoa Powder – 2tbsp.
- Milk– 1 tbsp.
Directions:
- Mix Cocoa powder with milk and form a smooth paste.
- After that, just clean it with lukewarm water.
For Better Results: Twice a week.
Caution: No major side effects of this treatment.
14. Strawberry and Milk Cream:
Does the very mention of Strawberry and milk cream make your mouth water? Well, the duo not only makes for a delicious dessert but also act as one of the best home remedies for dry face and neck. Milk cream is a heavy moisturizer that nourishes and hydrates your skin. Strawberry can repair and heal your damaged skin with its antioxidant agents.
Ingredients:
- Strawberry – 2.
- Milk Cream – 2 tbsp.
Directions:
- Mash strawberries and add milk cream to the pulp.
- Apply this pack on your face and neck skin.
- Leave it for 25 minutes.
- After that, wash it off with cold water.
For Better Results: Once or twice every week.
Caution: The acidic nature of Strawberry may irritate sensitive skin.
15. Sandalwood for Dry Skin:
Sandalwood, also called Chandan in India is one of the natural remedies for dry skin. While the dry powder can offer a soothing relief on irritated skin, Sandalwood oil keeps your skin hydrated. This aromatic oil contains fatty acids that nourish the skin and provide anti-aging benefits as well. What’s more? It can even keep many skin infections at bay, thanks to the powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ingredients:
- Sandalwood Oil – 4-5 drops.
- Coconut Oil – 2 tbsp.
Directions:
- Dilute Sandalwood oil with coconut oil.
- Apply this mixture on skin and massage for a minute.
- Leave on for 10-15 minutes and wash off with water.
For Better Results: This process should be done once a week.
Caution: You must never use undiluted Sandalwood oil directly on the skin as it can cause skin sensitivity.
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Additional Tips To Take Care of Dry Skin:
Dry skin can be easily managed if you follow certain precautions and make simple changes in your lifestyle. Here are some of the expert tips to prevent dry skin:
- Never use hot water for taking a bath or washing your face. It can strip away the moisture from your skin and cause dryness. Instead, go for lukewarm water.
- Use a mild soap-free cleanser or body wash instead of regular detergent-based soaps.
- Moisturize your skin soon after taking a bath with a creamy lotion or body oil.
- Exfoliate your skin once or twice a week with a mild cream-based scrub.
- Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen specially designed for dry skin before stepping out into the sun.
- In winters, try using a humidifier in your rooms to retain moisture levels in the air.
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Final Thoughts:
Those are some of the best home remedies for dry skin. With these by your aid, you need not worry about the onset of winters or summers! Irrespective of the weather conditions, these natural treatments can repair and heal your skin, minus the expensive price tags. Do let us know if you have any other such remedies and we’d be happy to feature them here!
