I often suffer from dry skin on my feet and legs, especially after having a shower. I wondered because it contradicted the common belief that itching is caused by poor hygiene. The urge to scratch often arises during sleep, forcing people to wake up and try to alleviate the discomfort with soothing creams or moisturizers. I researched the cause of this itching after every shower and found a list of common reasons for dryness in one or more areas of the body as follows:
■ Low humidity, especially in air-conditioned or heated environments.
■ Showering with hot water, as it removes the skin’s natural oils. Therefore, it is always advisable to avoid using a rough ‘loofah’ to cleanse the body.
■ Using perfumed soaps.
■ Insufficient consumption of water throughout the day.
■ Aging, as the body’s production of sufficient oils decreases.
■ Medical conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, or as a result of diabetes or thyroid problems. What are the easy ways to treat or alleviate the effects of these conditions?
■ Apply cream, ointment or lotion immediately after showering. This helps the cream, ointment or lotion penetrate the skin’s pores.
■ Use lotion with certain ingredients, such as urea (10-25 percent), lactic acid, shea butter or ceramide, as these are effective for the feet and legs. Wear cotton socks to allow the cream to penetrate the pores of the skin.
■ Avoid hot showers, especially in the afternoon, and reduce shower time. It is recommended to use a gentle, fragrance-free soap like Dove or one that is suitable for sensitive skin.
■ Use a humidifier at home, especially in the bedroom. A humidifier is cheap. Maintain indoor humidity level at 40-60 percent.
■ Drink a lot of water.
If these measures do not help, consume omega- 3 fatty acids from fish, flaxseeds and walnuts to support the barrier function of the skin and reduce the urge to scratch, which damages the barrier and worsens the condition. Before applying a cream, it is advisable to use a cold compress or gently pat the affected area with a damp hand. Before consulting a dermatologist, try using an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream (one percent). If the itching persists, a visit to the doctor is necessary, especially if the condition is continuous, spreading or accompanied by redness, scaling or cracking that does not heal. A dermatologist can rule out eczema, psoriasis or an underlying condition, such as diabetes or hypothyroidism.
By Ahmad alsarraf
