13 Natural Ways to Soothe Dry Skin at Home

Dry skin can be caused by a variety of factors, such as taking hot showers or baths, harsh weather conditions, and the natural aging process which leads to a decrease in natural oils in the skin. The good news is that you may not have to see a dermatologist to alleviate dry skin, unless you have an underlying skin condition.

Instead, you can try some home remedies to improve your skin's condition. Many of the ingredients used in these remedies, such as coconut oil, tea, and aloe vera, have been used for centuries in various cultures as natural medicines. These remedies can be found in your kitchen, so you don't have to spend a lot of money on expensive skincare products.

However, if you have a chronic skin condition like rosacea, psoriasis, or cystic acne, it's best to consult with an aesthetician or dermatologist before trying any home remedies. They can help you avoid any potential worsening of dry skin.

According to Jennifer Adell, a licensed aesthetician and senior aesthetician at New Beauty and Wellness in Westport, Connecticut, home remedies can be effective for many skin types, but it's important to seek professional advice if you have a chronic skin condition.

Why Natural Remedies for Dry Skin Might Be Better Than Store-Bought Products?

If you're someone who gets overwhelmed by long ingredient lists on skincare products, then it might be worth giving a natural remedy a try. Over-the-counter products often contain a lot of ingredients, including preservatives to prevent bacterial growth in water-based formulas. While these preservatives are necessary, they can also contribute to irritation, dryness, and allergic reactions for some people.

If you have allergies or sensitive skin, you might prefer to keep your skincare routine simple. Natural oils, for example, have a simple, natural base and can be a good option for dry skin. However, it's important to remember that natural remedies and oils aren't regulated by the FDA, so there's no guarantee that they're completely risk-free. It's always a good idea to talk to a dermatologist before trying out any new DIY skincare recipes.

Ways to Use Natural Remedies to Soothe Dry and Irritated Skin

Your skin is protected from moisture loss by the natural oils it produces, but daily activities such as forgetting to use moisturizer or using drying soap can strip these oils away. For people without acne, oils can restore the skin's sheen and protective moisture barrier. However, those with acne need to be cautious when selecting oils, as acne is typically caused by excess sebum production. Dermatologists recommend tea tree oil for mild to moderate acne, but it can cause skin irritation.

There are several ways to use oils to moisturize the skin, either alone or in combination with other ingredients, to make a nourishing mask or exfoliating rub. For dry skin, castor oil, lavender oil, and avocado oil may be good ingredients. Coconut oil is another excellent choice for those who do not have acne. In a study, people with atopic dermatitis saw an improvement in symptoms when they used virgin coconut oil on their skin.

Aloe vera is a natural houseplant with healing properties that is also effective as a natural moisturizer. Aloe vera gel contains mucopolysaccharides, such as hyaluronic acid, which help lock moisture into the skin and make it a great naturally moisturizing ingredient to try.

Home Remedies to Moisturize Dry Skin: 13 Natural Solutions

If your skin is feeling dry and in need of some attention, you can try some simple and natural remedies right at home. Here are 13 easy solutions to help you get started.

1. Use Olive Oil to Moisturize Your Skin

Extra-virgin olive oil can be a great substitute for your regular moisturizer if you need extra hydration in a hurry. Olive oil is rich in vitamin E, antioxidants, and other properties that can help repair damaged skin. However, if you have acne-prone skin, it's best to consult a dermatologist first as applying olive oil to your skin may clog your pores.

While olive oil may reduce inflammation, it's important to note that using it topically on its own may damage your skin barrier. For this reason, it's best to use a pure, non-refined form of olive oil and apply it sparingly to extremely dry areas, such as your elbows. You can also add a few drops to a face mask for an extra boost of hydration.

2. Make Your Own Creamy Avocado Face Mask

Dry skin can be a real pain, but there's a natural solution that you can make at home: an avocado face mask. Adell, who's used this mask on her own family, says it's packed with antioxidants and probiotics that can give you healthy, glowing skin. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• ½ avocado
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• A drizzle of manuka honey
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric

Directions:

1. Mash the avocado in a bowl.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, manuka honey, and turmeric.
3. Mix everything together until it forms a creamy paste.
4. Apply the mixture to your clean skin and leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes.
5. Rinse it off with warm water.

And don't forget to eat the other half of the avocado! According to a small study, eating an avocado daily can increase skin elasticity and firmness.

If you're looking for another way to use avocado on your skin, a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology combined avocado oil with water and saffron extract to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. While it's not clear if it moisturizes the skin, it can help rejuvenate your complexion.

3. Make a Coconut Oil and Sugar Scrub for Smooth Skin

If you're looking for a natural way to improve your skin's texture and appearance, making a homemade sugar scrub could be a good option. According to Michigan State University, you can mix 1 cup of brown or granulated sugar with ½ cup of coconut oil to create a gentle exfoliating scrub. You could even add a few drops of lavender essential oil for a pleasant scent and potential relaxation benefits.

To use the scrub, simply massage it into your skin for up to 30 seconds, then rinse it off with lukewarm water. Afterward, it's a good idea to apply a moisturizer to help lock in the benefits of the exfoliation.

However, keep in mind that not everyone's skin can handle physical exfoliation. The American Academy of Dermatology advises against using scrubs on skin that is irritated, acne-prone, or sensitive. Additionally, skin care expert Adell warns that sugar scrubs can be especially harsh on delicate facial skin, and suggests using gentler exfoliation methods like chemical peels or enzyme powders instead.

4. Soothe Your Skin with an Easy Oatmeal Bath

If you're struggling with dry or irritated skin, there's a simple solution that you can find in your pantry: oatmeal. According to Poblete-Lopez, adding a cup of oatmeal to your warm bath can naturally rehydrate your skin. The soothing properties of oatmeal help your skin retain moisture from the bathwater, which can provide relief from dryness and inflammation.

For a hassle-free soak, you can also tie the oats in a pantyhose and attach it to your faucet to let the water flow through them. This will create an oatmeal-infused bath that can be very beneficial for your skin.

Moreover, oatmeal has been found to be especially helpful for people with eczema. DermNetNZ explains that it can ease the symptoms of both atopic and contact dermatitis, such as dryness, inflammation, and irritation. In a double-blind study published in March 2020, researchers found that colloidal oatmeal, which has anti-inflammatory, soothing, and protective effects, effectively treated hand eczema. So if you're looking for a natural and easy way to calm your skin, try adding some oatmeal to your next bath.

5. Make Your Own Oatmeal Honey Mask to Exfoliate Your Skin

If you want to exfoliate your face, you can make your own natural mask using oatmeal and honey. All you need to do is mix 2 tablespoons of oats with 1 tablespoon of honey and add a little bit of water. You can apply the mixture to your face, gently scrub it to exfoliate and wash it off immediately. Alternatively, you can leave it on your skin for 15 to 20 minutes as a hydrating mask.

Using honey in your homemade mask may also provide some additional benefits. A recent review published in Open Life Sciences in October 2021 suggested that honey has antimicrobial properties that could potentially help accelerate wound healing. So, not only will your skin be exfoliated and moisturized, but it may also benefit from the natural properties of honey.

6. Take Care of Your Skin and Hair by Applying Coconut Oil at Night

Coconut oil has been used for centuries in African and Indian cultures as a natural remedy for hair and skin health. According to a review in the July 2022 issue of the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, it is a popular choice for at-home treatments.

Dr. Tsippora Shainhouse, a board-certified dermatologist at SkinSafe Dermatology and Skin Care in Beverly Hills, California, recommends using coconut oil as a moisturizer before bedtime or anytime. Since it solidifies at room temperature, it can be applied like a cream. For dry and chapped heels or hands, apply the oil and then cover with thick socks or non-latex gloves for added hydration.

7. Keep Your Skin Soft and Moist with Nourishing Oils

If you're looking for a natural way to moisturize your skin and restore its natural protective oils, you might want to consider using nourishing oils. According to Dr. Shainhouse, natural oils like olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, and avocado oil are free from irritants and can help recreate the skin's natural barrier that gets damaged due to frequent hand and face washing with water and harsh soaps.

To use these oils, you can add a few tablespoons of your preferred oil to your bathwater and enjoy a short soak. Afterward, gently pat your skin dry to avoid removing all the oil. However, it's worth noting that bathing with oils may not be the best option for women as it can increase the risk of vaginal health issues, according to research published in Women's Health in December 2017.

Therefore, instead of bathing with oils, you may consider applying a small amount of your preferred oil to your skin after showering to keep it soft and moisturized. By doing so, you can nourish your skin without putting your vaginal health at risk.

8. Soothe Irritated Skin with Milk Compresses

Milk is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and contains lactic acid, which is a gentle exfoliant. According to a 14-day study published in the August 2020 Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, using a lotion with lactic acid and ceramides twice a day can improve skin hydration and get rid of dead skin cells. Lactic acid is also a hydrating alpha-hydroxy acid that is safe for sensitive skin and can be used during pregnancy.

To make a milk compress, soak a clean washcloth or towel in cool milk and hold it over any dry, itchy areas of skin for 5 to 10 minutes. This is especially helpful for irritated skin. However, if your skin is cracked or actively inflamed, avoid using lactic acid as it can sting. Mild tingling is normal, but if you experience burning, stop using it and consult with a dermatologist or aesthetician.

Lactic acid may help restore the skin barrier and treat conditions like eczema, but further research is needed to confirm these benefits.

9. Fruit Enzymes Can Help with Dry Skin and Aging

If you're looking for a way to tackle dry skin, using fruit enzymes might be a fun and effective option. According to Dr. Shainhouse, these natural compounds known as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) can gently exfoliate the top layer of dead skin cells on both your face and body, leaving your skin looking fresher and brighter. Not only that, but AHAs are also thought to have anti-aging benefits and improve your overall skin texture, as noted by the FDA.

To reap these benefits, Dr. Shainhouse suggests using a fruit enzyme cleanser or exfoliant twice a week. For the best results, keep an eye out for ingredients like bromelain from pineapples, papain from papayas, and ficain from figs, which have been shown to work well in studies published in November 2021.

10. Soothe Dry Skin with Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is commonly known as a remedy for sunburns, but it can also be beneficial during the dry winter months. It works by reducing redness and irritation caused by excessive dryness, and research has shown that it can even help with signs of aging, acne breakouts, and skin injuries.

However, it's important to note that some people may develop an allergic reaction called contact dermatitis when using aloe vera, so it's recommended to do a patch test before applying it to a large area of skin.

11. How Honey can be used to treat Dry Patches on the Skin

Honey has been found to have emollient and humectant properties that help to hydrate and soften the skin by retaining moisture. It can also be used as an alternative treatment for skin conditions like dermatitis, psoriasis, and dandruff.

Additionally, manuka honey, in particular, is known for its wound healing properties, as it's naturally antimicrobial and helps to keep the affected area moist, which prevents infections. Due to these properties, honey is a great ingredient for making face masks and can be used as a powerful spot treatment for dry and irritated skin.

You can add manuka honey to your avocado mask to increase its effectiveness in healing wounds and reducing inflammation. To get the best results, apply honey in small amounts to the affected area and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off.

12. Tea Bags Can Help Soothe Inflammation on Your Skin

Tea bags are not just for making tea! You can actually use them to help soothe inflammation on your skin. There are many different types of tea bags that can be used for this purpose, including chamomile, jasmine, black, and green tea.

Black and green tea bags, according to the Cincinnati Health Institute, can have a cooling and anti-inflammatory effect on your skin. They can also help balance your skin's natural pH level. The caffeine in these teas can also be helpful in reducing under eye circles by safely shrinking blood vessels in this delicate area of skin. To use, simply apply a cool wet tea bag under each eye for 5 to 10 minutes.

A small study published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment in December 2019 looked at the effect of black tea gauze compresses on 22 people with facial atopic dermatitis. After three days of five compresses a day, participants saw an improvement in their skin symptoms, with no noticeable side effects.

Herbal tea bags like chamomile can also be beneficial for reducing inflammation and irritation. Chamomile can relax irritated skin tissue and can be used for alleviating itchy skin, rashes, and flaky skin. Simply brew, cool, and place the chamomile tea bag onto your skin for up to 30 minutes.

Additionally, jasmine tea can be helpful in addressing acne. So, next time you have some tea bags lying around, try using them to soothe your skin!

13. Petroleum Jelly: A Basic Solution for Skincare

If you take a peek inside your medicine cabinet, chances are you'll find a jar of Vaseline or Aquaphor. Both products contain petroleum jelly, also known as petrolatum, which has several benefits for your skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), petroleum jelly can help soothe dry skin, prevent chafing, and promote skin healing. You can even use it all over your body, including on your lips and eyelids, as it's generally safe for most people.

In fact, some people are such big fans of petroleum jelly that they use a technique called "slugging," where they apply it all over their face before going to bed and leave it on overnight. You can also use it throughout the day whenever your skin feels dry or irritated. However, the AAD recommends using it on damp skin for best results.

If you have acne-prone skin, it's best to avoid using petroleum jelly on your face as it could potentially cause breakouts. Overall, petroleum jelly is a simple and affordable solution that can help keep your skin healthy and moisturized.