Try These 16 Scientifically Proven Home Remedies to Treat Dry Skin

It does not matter if your dry skin is caused by ageing, an underlying medical condition, or other kinds of environmental factors. Having dry skin can be frustrating and troublesome. Ignoring dry skin can result in flakiness, irritation, bleeding, and scarring. It’s critical to prevent worsening dry skin and to give your skin the attention it requires. Store-bought skincare is often pricey and does not always produce the desired effects. However, there are many home remedies for dry skin which are natural and work amazingly against dry skin and help relieve the itchiness on your skin.

This article explores different home remedies for dry skin that are backed by science, in addition to the causes of dry skin and how to prevent it. 

Symptoms of Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, you may have one or more of the following symptoms as mentioned below:-

• Redness of the skin
• Flakes or scales on the skin
• Cracked, rough-looking skin
• Itchiness

Causes of Dry Skin

The body produces an oil—sebum—to keep the skin moisturised. Anything that disrupts sebum production or results in excess sebum loss can cause dryness of the skin. Activities such as washing hands frequently or taking a hot shower can cause dryness.

There are numerous causes of dry skin (or xerosis, an alternative term used for dry skin), including the following:

• Weather changes, such as the onset of winter
• Dry wind in arid regions
• Excessive use of heating ventilation air conditioning (HVAC)
• Hot showers
• Exposure to chlorinated water in the swimming pool
• Exposure to acid rain
• Excessive use of skin cleansers
• Skin conditions such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and eczema
• Harsh chemicals in soap

Besides these, some medications can also cause xerosis, or dryness of the skin. The doctor may advise the patient to use some additional moisturisers if they are prescribing such medications.

16 Best Home Remedies for Dry Skin Treatment at Home

There are numerous products available in the market to treat dry skin, why not give a try to Home Remedies to Dry Skin? Some dry skin remedies can be used on the face as well as the body, but some remedies are intended only for the body.

Here are we listed out the 16 best home remedies for dry skin as mentioned below:

1. Honey
2. Avocado Oil
3. Rice Water
4. Aloe Vera
5. Papaya Toner
6. Milk
7. Apricot Kernel Oil
8. Coconut Oil
9. Oatmeal baths
10. Using a humidifier
11. Multani mitti and honey/curd face pack
12. Banana face pack
13. Glycerine and rose water
14. Almond face pack
15. Beast milk
16. Honey and cinnamon

1. Honey

   Honey is a natural humectant that moisturises the skin thoroughly. It also possesses anti-inflammatory characteristics, which assist in relieving irritation and redness, as well as any other skin problems. It also efficiently brightens skin and gives it a healthy shine. Home remedies for dry skin on the face with honey work amazingly and can reduce the dryness on the face to a great extent. Not only that, but the consumption of honey also provides a lot of benefits to the overall health of your body.

2. Avocado Oil

   If you are looking for home remedies for dry skin on your legs, the application of avocado oil can help you out a lot. Avocados are high in omega-3 fatty acids and include a variety of vitamins. Avocado oil is rich and nutritious, as well as easily absorbed into the skin. It’s an excellent choice for treating dry skin and works as a natural moisturiser. Application of avocado oil on skin also works against signs of ageing, it is one of the best home remedies for dry skin.

3. Rice Water

   The water of rice acts as a natural ingredient that can be used to treat dry skin on legs, face, or arms. The Japanese have a long history of using rice water in their daily beauty routines. Rice water helps to maintain moisture while brightening, eliminating dullness, moisturising, and preventing symptoms of ageing by balancing the pH levels of the skin. It may be used as a face and body toner to help soothe and moisturise dry, irritated skin. Save the water from washing your rice and use a cotton ball to rub it on your skin in order to prevent skin dryness and other kinds of skin issues.

4. Aloe Vera

   Aloe Vera is one of the best natural remedies for dry skin. Aloe Vera can be used on all types of skin, including sensitive skin. Aloe Vera gel moisturises the skin and helps to prevent outbreaks. Aloe Vera gel also includes vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to skin health. Scrape one aloe vera leaf’s gel and crush it into a paste. It is important to keep this gel refrigerated in an airtight glass jar so that it does not go to waste. Apply it immediately to your skin and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing it off with water. Daily application of Aloe Vera gel is really beneficial.

5. Papaya Toner

   Papaya toner comes under the best home remedies for dry hands. Papaya is known to have great moisturising and skin-brightening properties. This enzyme-rich fruit is chock-full of nutrients that keep skin looking healthy, hydrated, and radiant. Papayas can also be used to treat sunburn and inflammation. It also helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Daily application of papaya toner can remove the flakiness caused by dry skin.

6. Milk

   You might be surprised to know, but milk works amazingly against dry skin. The lactic acid in milk works against dry skin by keeping it hydrated for long durations of time. Milk can also be used to treat sunburn and acne. Milk is an excellent way to successfully cure dry skin at home. With a cotton ball, apply it immediately to the parts of the skin which are dry, and you will see them getting hydrated again in a few days.

7. Apricot Kernel Oil

   The application of Apricot Kernel Oil on the skin is made when skin is extremely dry and cannot be hydrated by other home remedies for dry skin. Apricot Kernel Oil is sold in a lot of colder regions of the world due to its extreme ability to instantly rehydrate the dried skin. Apricot Kernel Oil is rich in vitamins such as vitamin C and E, which makes it good for the overall health of your skin as well. Daily application of this oil can do wonders.

8. Coconut Oil

   The oldest and one of the most used home remedies for dry skin is the application of coconut oil. Coconut oil is a natural hydrating agent, making it an excellent moisturiser for dry, parched skin. It deeply nourishes and moisturises the skin, boosting overall health of the skin. It may be used to moisturise your skin before or after you shower. It is also rich in other types of beneficial vitamins.

9. Oatmeal Baths

   Oatmeal baths, a common remedy for dry skin that has been used for many years, are a great way to add moisture to dry skin. With its anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants, oatmeal is effective at soothing irritated skin.
   To prepare this dry skin remedy, you can grind oatmeal into a fine powder and mix it to make a paste using warm water. You can then massage your body with this paste and wash it off with plain water. It is advisable to avoid using soap immediately after having an oatmeal bath.

10. Using a Humidifier

    People who live in areas where the air is dry can consider using a humidifier at their place of work and/or home. According to an article shared by Harvard Health Publishing, setting a humidifier at 60% should be enough to replenish the moisture lost from the top layer of the skin.

11. Multani Mitti and Honey/Curd Face Pack

    The moisturising properties of honey or curd combined with the soothing effect of Multani mitti (fuller’s earth) can do wonders for dry skin.
    To make this mask, mix 2 tablespoons of Multani mitti with 1 tablespoon of honey or curd and add water as needed (you can also use cucumber juice instead of water). To enjoy the benefits of this dry skin remedy on your face, apply a smooth layer of it and keep it on for no more than 15 minutes. If the face pack is drying too quickly, consider spraying some water on the face to keep it moist. Then, after 15 minutes, rinse it off with plain water; do not use warm water as it will dry out the skin.
    People with dry skin can use this face pack once a week or every two weeks. Please note that excessive use of Multani mitti can lead to dryness, so moderation is the key.

12. Banana Face Pack

    Bananas are excellent for adding moisture to the skin and hair.
    To make a moisturising banana face pack, one should start by pureeing half a banana and adding Multani mitti to make a thick paste. You can apply this paste, once a week to add moisture to the dry skin. Gentle exfoliation before applying this face mask is also recommended. However, if you have sensitive skin, you can consider using a gentle face wash instead.
    This dry skin remedy can also prevent wrinkles; it is also beneficial for healthy skin due to the presence of vitamins B6 and C, niacin, zinc, potassium, and amino acids.

13. Glycerine and Rose Water

    Glycerine and rose water have long been used as a remedy to improve the skin barrier function and provide hydration. When combined, they create a powerful combination that benefits the skin.
    To enjoy the benefits of this remedy, one can mix one teaspoon glycerine and one tablespoon rose water, apply the mixture to the face or body, and wash it off after 15−30 minutes.
    This remedy can also be used as a spot-on treatment for dry patches of the skin; one has to keep the mixture on for about an hour or so for this. A person can use this remedy a few times a week if they have excessively dry skin.

14. Almond Face Pack

    Almond oil has been known to exhibit emollient properties that can help treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. One can prepare a moisturising almond face pack by following the instructions mentioned below:

    1. Boil about 6−7 almonds in water for a few minutes
    2. Soak these almonds in ½ cup of fresh cream overnight after straining and cooling them down
    3. Blend this into a smooth paste
    4. Apply this paste to the skin and keep it on for 15 minutes or so
    5. Wash this off with plain water
       Applying this face mask once a week can help a person get supple, smooth skin. The emollient properties of almond oil, along with the nourishing properties of fresh cream, can provide moisture and hydration to the skin, promoting a healthier complexion.

15.  Breast milk

    It may seem bizarre to some people, but breast milk has been used for various purposes other than providing nutrition to an infant, such as to treat diaper rashes and atopic eczema in babies. The presence of antibodies, epidermal growth factor (EGF), and erythropoietin in breast milk may help in the repair and growth of skin cells.
    All one needs is a cotton ball to apply the breast milk to dry patches of the skin and let it dry naturally before washing it off with plain water.

16. Honey and Cinnamon

    As a natural humectant, honey keeps the skin moisturised. Applying honey on the skin regularly can help in keeping the skin soft and supple. Adding cinnamon to honey can double the benefits, as cinnamon improves capillary circulation and unclogs skin pores. Additionally, cinnamon is an anti-inflammatory agent that can reduce oxidative damage to the skin caused by free radicals.
    To prepare this wonderful home remedy, one can mix 2 tablespoons of honey with ½ teaspoon of cinnamon powder. Applying this mixture to the face and other body parts twice or thrice a week can hydrate the skin.

Why Natural Home Remedies are Better for Your Skin?

It is easy to buy a product online or from a department store instead of investing time in making a dry skin treatment at home. However, these commercial skin-care products may contain ingredients that one does not want to apply to their body.

Additionally, some brands don’t list each ingredient on the product and mention only key ingredients, making it difficult to know exactly what one is applying to their skin. Also, the preservatives and other ingredients in over-the-counter dry skin treatments at home may not be harmful for every individual, but they don’t help with moisturising the skin either. Some products contain fragrances and alcohol, which can irritate the skin and exacerbate dryness.

On the other hand, remedies for dry skin on face that are prepared at home have simple formulation with no added preservatives or other additives. Besides, every individual has different requirements according to their skin type and finding a suitable product can be time consuming, expensive, and a hassle in itself. People with sensitive skin can have an especially hard time in finding suitable products.

However, it is important to note that natural remedies also carry their own risks as they are not regulated by standard government authorities; thus, people must exercise caution while trying different dry skin remedies. One must visit a certified dermatologist immediately if the following symptoms appear or increase in intensity after trying any dry skin home remedy:

• Persistent itching that prevents one from sleeping or going about their daily chores
• Development of redness or rash on the skin
• Burning sensation
• Feeling pain upon touching the skin

Overall, natural home remedies may be a better alternative for those who want more control over the ingredients that they apply to their skin, as well as for people with sensitive skin or specific needs.

Prevention of Dry Skin

Home remedies for dry skin can surely help you rehydrate your skin and make it glow again, but it is important to address the root of the problem. There are multiple ways through which dry skin can be avoided, such as applying moisturiser instantly after you come out of the shower, not rubbing your skin too hard, not bathing in water that is too hot, and avoiding contact with detergents and other kinds of washing powder.

Drinking less water than your body’s daily requirement can lead to dry skin. To prevent dehydration, it is important that one drinks plenty of water daily. In addition to water, incorporating fruits that have a high-water content, such as watermelons and grapes, is also a great way to hydrate the body.

Furthermore, dry air, particularly during the winter season, can contribute to dry skin. This can be an issue in regions with consistently dry air throughout the year, except during the monsoon season. Wearing clothing that covers body parts, such as gloves and scarves, can help protect the skin from the dry air and prevent further moisture loss.

Besides, harsh chemicals found in laundry detergent, dishwasher liquid, and other cleaning products can also irritate the skin and make it dry. Wearing silicone gloves while handling these products can help protect the skin and prevent dryness caused by exposure to the chemicals.

Some people get dry and flaky skin when the seasons change. To alleviate the severity of the dryness and minimise discomfort, it is recommended to moisturise the hands regularly and wear protective gloves while doing household chores or working with harsh chemicals.
Locking moisture in the skin is another great way to prevent it from drying out. People who have dry skin can benefit from applying petroleum jelly or other moisturising product to their skin.

Additionally, people who have skin allergies from dust or particular substances should avoid exposure to known allergens to prevent irritating the skin, which may lead to dry skin.

Dry skin is caused by a lot of factors, and with enough precautions and care, your skin will always be healthy. If natural remedies for dry skin are not working for you, you might have an underlying skin condition. In this case, you need to speak to a doctor.

It is critical to keep your skin hydrated and moisturised as dry skin can lead to multiple problems such as rashes, bacterial infections, and bleeding. A bacterial infection may be indicated by redness, swelling, or pus. If a person believes their skin has been infected, they should consult a doctor right once.

Other good practises to maintain healthy skin include the following:

• Wear sunscreen every day (including when it’s raining) with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more. A SPF of 50 or more is recommended for tropical areas that get intense sunshine.
• Avoid using detergents and soaps containing alcohol
• Limit your showers to one 5-to-10-minute session per day
• Don’t use soap excessively
• Avoid using harsh body scrubbers
• Use moisturiser every time you wash your hands if you do it frequently
• Wear soft fabrics that don’t irritate the skin
• Apply nourishing oils before going to bed (especially in the winters)
• Avoid scratching dry skin
• Eat a balanced meal and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Foods That Can Help You Avoid Dry Skin

Healthy skin requires proper nutrition to stay hydrated and flexible. While topical cosmetic products have their benefits, their effects may be limited and temporary. However, eating a nutrient-rich diet is important for getting healthy skin. Here is a list of foods that can help improve skin health and prevent dryness of the skin:

• Fatty fish
  Fatty fish, such as salmon, herring, and mackerel, are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for maintaining healthy skin and preventing dryness due to omega-3 deficiency.
• Soy
  The isoflavones present in soy can influence estrogenic levels in the body. Consuming soy regularly can improve skin dryness, particularly in postmenopausal women who experience a decline in oestrogen levels.
• Avocados
  Avocados are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C, which can promote flexible and moisturised skin. Vitamin C also plays a role in preventing dry skin, although vitamin C deficiency is rare.
• Sweet potatoes
  Rich in beta carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, sweet potatoes can provide a significant amount of this nutrient. This nutrient acts like a natural sunblock by adding to the protective abilities of the skin against sunlight. Extended sun exposure is known to cause dryness of the skin, among other problems.
• Bell peppers
  Bell peppers, especially red and yellow ones, are excellent sources of vitamin C and the provitamin A—beta-carotene similar to sweet potatoes. One can get more than the DV for vitamin A by consuming a cup of chopped red bell peppers and about twice the DV for vitamin C from one cup of chopped bell peppers.
• Broccoli
  This powerhouse of a vegetable offers many essential vitamins and minerals for skin health, including lutein (which works similar to beta-carotene), sulphoraphane, vitamin A, vitamin C, and zinc. Lutein can reduce oxidative damage to the skin, and sulphoraphane works as a protective agent against sun damage to prevent skin dryness.

Things To Keep in Mind While Trying Different Home Remedies

People have been using home remedies for every health condition, including skin dryness, for a long time. However, it is important to note that many of these remedies have not been extensively studied or tested in a standardised manner to confirm their benefits and identify potential side effects. The evidence supporting the use of home remedies often relies on anecdotal experiences rather than scientific research. Therefore, people are advised to exercise caution while using home remedies to treat dry skin at home.

• People who have acne prone skin should carefully select home remedies that contain oils, as sebum overproduction can cause the skin to break out.
• Trying different home remedies at once may end up irritating the skin; thus, people should only try one home remedy for dry skin and stick with it for some time to see results before moving on to another at-home skin remedy.
• People who have skin allergies or underlying conditions must be careful while trying home remedies for dry skin, as they may end up worsening the symptoms.

By keeping these points in mind, individuals can safely explore and assess the effectiveness of home remedies for dry skin while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions or worsening of their skin condition.

Takeaway

Dry skin remedies can be beneficial for skin health and have little to no side effects. However, one must exert caution while using these if they have sensitive skin; people with underlying skin conditions are advised not to try different home remedies for dry skin on face before consulting their dermatologist to avoid complications. Using numerous home remedies frequently is also not recommended, as the skin may get irritated.

To prevent dryness in the winter season and arid regions, one can consider moisturising every day, using mild soaps or detergents, and avoiding excessively hot showers.

Apart from the ones mentioned above, there are numerous home remedies for dry skin that don’t have enough scientific evidence to prove their efficacy. However, people often try such remedies based on anecdotal evidence and may or may not benefit from them.

In worst-case scenarios, such home remedies may create complications for a person that require a dermatologist’s immediate attention. An adverse reaction is less likely to occur when one tries home remedies that are backed by science.