Are You Suffering From Dry Itchy Skin?

In the U.S., over 100 million people suffer from dry skin.

We've all had our moments of dealing with dry hands, elbows, feet, etc. Often we view dry skin as just a minor nuisance and ignore it. But for many people, this condition can be more than just an uncomfortable irritant.

Dry skin can feel tight or painful. It can take on a dull red or flaky look and be compounded by itchiness. Sometimes dry itchy skin keeps people awake at night. In the U.S., over 100 million people suffer from dry skin and for some it is much more than just an annoyance.

The skin is our largest organ and it's our first line of defense against infection. Skin that is allowed to become overly dry can crack which can allow bacteria a way to get into the body. That could be the first step to a serious problem. Taking care of your skin is much more than just a cosmetic concern. Dry skin not only affects the way you look, it can affect you mentally and physically.

Our skin contains a layer of natural lipids, or fats. This layers aids in retaining moisture and leaving the skin soft. What causes the skin to dry out is this fatty layer being stripped away. The cause is most often environmental or something you are actually doing such as prolonged exposure to dry air or using a harsh soap. But medical conditions such as diabetes or psoriasis can also contribute to dry skin. If left untreated, it can lead to an inflammation of the skin known as dermatitis.

Medications and Drugs
Many medicines have a side effect of drying out the skin. These include drugs for:

· High blood pressure, like diuretics

· Allergies, like antihistamines

· Acne and other skin conditions, like retinoids

If you experience dry skin and you believe your medicine may be the cause, talk to your doctor about alternatives. It may be that changing the dose is all you need.

Medical Conditions
Dry skin is usually caused by external factors; however, it can be a sign of either a natural physiologic change or an illness.

Aging is a natural change that leads to dry skin. Most people develop dry skin as they get older, especially women. Changes in hormones can lead to dry skin and for many it is genetic. Some people are just prone to it.

Medical conditions can also lead to dry skin. A few common causes are:

· Skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema. In some instances specific skin therapy treatment may be needed, but the use of moisturizers may be enough remedies for skin problems.

· Diabetes. Fluctuations in one's glucose levels may lead to dehydration, and dehydration will dry the skin out. Diabetes can be slow healing which increases the risk of infections. If you suffer from diabetes, it's very important to keep your skin healthy and a high quality emu oil skin lotion should be applied.

· Malnutrition. Not getting the necessary nutrients the body needs can leave the skin dehydrated and needing water and electrolytes.

Eat well
Did you know you could improve your complexion by consuming certain foods that contain inflammation-reducing niacin, like avocados?

Apricots, carrots, and cantaloupes are packed full of vitamin A and healthy antioxidants that fight skin-aging free radicals.

Essential fatty acids like the omega-3s found in salmon, walnuts, and eggs help produce your skin's natural oil layer that is essential in maintaining skin hydration.

Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts. If ever you have a craving for nuts, it may be due to an iron deficiency. Even if you do eat a well-balanced diet take a multivitamin daily.

Use skin treatment products containing 100% pure Emu oil to help keep skin moisturized and will penetrate deeply into the tissues of the skin, muscles, and joints.

Avoid diuretics such as alcohol and caffeine because they can cause the body and skin cells to lose important minerals and fluids.

The special report, Simple Steps to Relieve Dry Skin, from Blue Spring Wellness will give you detailed information about your proactive skin care regimen to start feeling and looking better today.