Chronic dryness on the skin can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition to deal with. Dry skin can become itchy, flaky, and can even crack, making it difficult to maintain healthy skin.

Fortunately, there are some ways to manage chronic dryness on the skin:.

1. Use gentle cleansers

Harsh soaps and cleansers can strip away the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Instead, opt for mild, fragrance-free cleansers that will cleanse your skin without causing damage.

Look for products labeled “hypoallergenic” or “for sensitive skin” for the best results.

2. Moisturize regularly

Moisturizing is one of the most important things you can do for chronic dryness on the skin. After cleansing, apply a moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture.

Choose a fragrance-free, lightweight formula for daytime use, and a richer cream for night-time use when your skin needs extra hydration.

3. Drink plenty of water

Dehydration can contribute to dry skin, so make sure that you drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

4. Avoid hot water

Hot water can strip away your skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Instead, use lukewarm water for cleansing and bathing, and try to limit your time in the shower or bath to no more than 10 minutes.

5. Use a humidifier in your home

Heating and air conditioning can dry out the air in your home, which can contribute to dry skin. Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, which can help to alleviate dryness and irritation.

6. Wear protective clothing

When you’re out in the sun or in cold, windy weather, wear protective clothing to prevent your skin from becoming dry and irritated.

Look for clothing made from natural, breathable fibers, and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face from the sun’s harmful rays.

7. Avoid irritating fabrics

Certain fabrics can be irritating to dry, sensitive skin. Avoid wearing anything made from rough fabrics like wool or polyester, and choose soft, breathable fabrics like cotton instead.

8. Don’t over-exfoliate

Exfoliating can help to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover, but it can also contribute to dryness and irritation if done too frequently.

Limit your exfoliation to once or twice per week, and use a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant rather than harsh physical scrubs.

9. Choose the right skincare products

Choosing the right skincare products can make a huge difference in managing chronic dryness on the skin. Look for products specifically formulated for dry, sensitive skin, and avoid products with harsh ingredients like alcohol or fragrances.

10. See a dermatologist

If your chronic dryness on the skin is severe or persistent, it may be time to see a dermatologist. They can help to diagnose and treat any underlying skin conditions, and recommend treatments to manage your dry skin.