Ayurveda describes dry and itchy skin as “twak rookshata”. This happens due to imbalance of vata which in-turn imbalances oil secretion from glands of skin. There are effective natural ayurvedic remedies for this. These are explained here.
Problems of dry skin
The problem with dry skin are many. It is very dry to touch and looks dull. The skin glow is absent and it may flake off while removing cloths or when rubbed with towel. One of the main things about dry skin is that it can drive people crazy when becomes itchy. The dryness and itching worsens during winter.
Scratching the itchy dry skin may lead to bleeding and secondary infections from microbes like bacteria and fungus. Itching of dry skin may get exaggerated when you use synthetic clothes since the prevent air circulation to skin.
Causes of Dry Skin
Ayurvedic home remedies and treatment for dry skin
Nicole says “When drying is the cause of your itch, however, the main factor at work is a loss of moisture. This can happen in several ways. Too much exposure to sunlight and ultra-violet rays can cause skin damage or burns, which dehydrate the skin. ”
According to Sarah “Throughout the winter season, very low temperature, very low moisture as well as powerful, tough wind gusts diminish skin of its healthy lipid coating, which will keep skin from becoming dry. The dry air from furnaces along with other heat options also draw the dampness away from the skin. ”
Apart from these harsh soaps and medications can also cause dry and itchy skin.
What ayurveda says about dry skin ?
Texts of Ayurveda describe this condition as twak rookshata. This condition arises when vata dosha vitiates tissues of skin and imbalances oil secretion from glands of skin.
We usually see dry and itching skin in
- Elderly,
- Women who are attaining menopause, (Check our UTONORM CAPSULES to ease menopause symptoms)
- People who have inherited dry skin.
- Skin conditions like psoriasis. ( Check Psoriasis ayurvedic herbal treatment combo)
- Persons who suffer from stress (Ashwagandha capsules for stress)
- People who are exposed to high temperatures.
- Persons who consume less water.
Ayurvedic treatment and remedies for dry itchy skin
The remedial measures have to be aimed at balancing vata by changing lifestyles and diet.
Simple ayurvedic tips to overcome itching dry skin
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- Always wear cotton clothes so that air circulates on the skin surface.
- Drink plenty of water to elevate moisture level of skin.
- Reduce stress through Yoga and Meditation. Brisk walking, outdoor games, reading books, nurturing your hobbies etc are also best stress busters.
- Apply plenty of moisturiser which is devoid of alcohol and strong fragrance.
- Carry an umbrella when you go out in sun. Wear full armed clothes and avoid sunburn.
- Do not apply talcum powder. It further increases dryness.
- Massage coconut oil or sesame oil all over body and wash it off after 3 hours.
- Use gram flour or Channa flour (besan) instead of soap.
- The best ayurvedic remedy for dry skin is PSORIBAN CREAM which is made by processing effective skin friendly herbs with castor oil and beeswax. The mildly fragrant cream helps to reduce dryness and itching. It allows the skin to rejuvenate. This cream helps to enhance the glow of skin when used with SKINGLOW capsules.
Home Remedies for Dry and Itchy Skin
Sarah Hanley recommends the following home remedies
Get a Humidifier –
To retain moisture from the dryness of the air, it is advisable to invest some money on something which can help retain the moisture, so you can live in low-humidity room. It is advisable to maintain enough humidity so skin has 30 percent of humidity to remain moisturized. If your skin tears during winter it is advisable to have humidifier in your room.
Exfoliate regularly –
Keep exfoliating regularly so your skin can absorb the moisturizer and retain the moisture easily. By using salt scrub in the shower and exfoliating the face with mild scrubbing. Try removing the flaky skin with dry brush before a shower to remove flaky skin.
Stop using Dry Harsh Soaps –
Majority of the soaps found in the market take away the moisture. By sticking with moisturizing cleanser which does contain glycerin and petroleum it helps retain the water and preventing dryness. Try skipping the bath as it steals away the moisture of your skin and try using bath oils which are great for itchy type of skins.
Drinking water myth –
Many believe that drinking large amount of water can relieve you from dryness. Though it is hard to be moisturized inside out, it has been proven in many university studies there is slight benefit of drinking large amounts of water and preventing dry skin.
Joe Sloan has added more home remedies to fight this condition
Wear Gloves during House chores
Wear Gloves when you are doing chores such as washing dishes, cleaning, household stuff. You could also use naturally green products which are less abrasive but still get the cleaning done.
Take Vitamin E and C
Take vitamin E to help itching and reduce inflammation. You can also take vitamin C if you are not already taking it. Both of these vitamins have great antioxidants to help protect the skin from damage because of dry skin. Fruits like amla, lemon, orange are very rich in vitamin C
Take warm bath
Take a warm bath, it amazing at how many things a nice soaking the tub can do for the body. Be sure that it is warm and not hot, hot water tends to dry the skin out also. You can also add things to your bath to help, such as chamomile oil, oatmeal, hyssop, and peppermint. Add 10 drops of either to your bath, then when your finished make sure to lotion up real good again.
