When the skin fails to retain enough moisture it feels dry and stretched. This occurs when the oil glands beneath the skin produce an inadequate amount of sebum, which is the natural oil responsible for moisturizing the skin and keeping it soft and supple.
You can take a few simple dietary measures to address this problem:
- Drink at least 7 to 8 liters of water every day as water is the most essential moisturizing component of diet.
- Cut down the consumption of caffeine-based beverages and alcoholic drinks as these tend to dry up the skin.
- Use a mixture of rose water and glycerin to massage your face at least twice a week. This washes away dead cells from the skin and improves its texture.
- Use greater amount of cumin, coriander and turmeric in cooked food. These are natural soothing agents.
- Fruits are a source of natural sugars as well as moisture, so include lots of fresh fruits in your diet.
- Avoid the use of make-up and other chemical agents like soaps as they tend to de-moisturize the skin.
- Stay away from direct sunlight and air pollution as far as possible.
Besides these, there are quite a few home remedies for dry skin:
- Honey is a natural moisturizing agent. Make a face pack with ½ tablespoon of honey with 1-2 tablespoons of rose water and apply it on the face and the neck. Wash it off after ten minutes. This leaves the skin feeling soft and glowing.
- Cucumber is another common source of natural moisture. Apply mashed cucumber to the face to restore its lost moisture content.
- Apples contain minerals that effectively revitalize the skin. Grate 2-3 apples and apply the paste to your face. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then wash it away with cold water.
- Make a face pack using avocado, half a papaya and one banana. Massage your face and neck with this paste and wash it off after 15 minutes with lukewarm water.
- You can also use one teaspoon each of avocado and lime juice and apply it to your face. Wash your face with cold water after 20 minutes.
- Mix 1-2 teaspoons of milk powder with 1 teaspoon each of egg yolk and honey. Apply it on your face and wash it away after 15 minutes.
answered by G R