Sore dry skin is a common problem for people of all ages, particularly during the winter months. There are several effective types of treatment options available to treat sore dry skin, including topical creams, lotions, and ointments. For those with persistent problems with sore dry skin, nutritional therapy or mild lifestyle changes may also prove to be beneficial.
Dry skin primarily develops due to a loss of moisture in the skin. If left untreated, the skin may become cracked and sore. For this reason, properly moisturizing the skin is vitally important in keeping skin healthy. It is especially important to moisturize the skin following a shower or washing the hands so that the moisture is held into the skin.
Many topical preparations are commercially available to treat sore dry skin, including creams, lotions, and ointments. Each of these topical treatments can be effective moisturizing solutions, so choosing the right type is typically a matter of personal preference. Lotions tend to be the most popular type of topical treatment because they have a less greasy feeling than other types of moisturizers, although the alcohol content in some lotions can cause further dryness. Creams are often the next choice in treating sore dry skin because they blend in soon after applying without leaving the skin feeling greasy or oily. Ointments can be quite effective, although some people do not like the greasy feeling which comes along with this type of topical moisturizer.
Nutritional support can be an important part of treating sore dry skin, especially for those who suffer with this problem on a regular basis. Foods which are high in Vitamin A content are particularly helpful in maintaining healthy skin. Some of these foods include tomatoes, carrots, and green, leafy vegetables. Vitamin B-5, which is found in foods such as whole grains, wheat germ, and legumes is also an important part of skin health. For those who have trouble maintaining a skin-healthy diet, vitamin supplements are readily available in most drug stores and do not require a prescription from a doctor.
A few mild lifestyle changes may be helpful in preventing or treating sore dry skin. Hands should only be washed when necessary, and harsh detergents or chemicals should be avoided whenever possible. While doing any type of cleaning with chemicals or detergents, protective gloves should be worn. Exposure to cold temperatures can often cause or worsen dry skin problems, so protective clothing should always be worn during cold weather.