HOT WATER BATH DAMAGES NATURAL SOFTNESS OF SKIN

Dry skin makes an individual look dull and overall unkempt due to lack of moisture. Wrinkles are seen all over the body. Well hydrated skin gives a healthy look, person also feels confident as there is nothing to shy away. Skin is the reflection of a person’s health, balance of body, mind and soul.

According to Ayurveda, dry skin is caused due to Vata Dosha. When Vata dosha increases in the body it makes the skin dry and wrinkled.

Causes for increase of Vata dosha in the body:

• Irregular food habits.
• Controlling natural urges like urination, passing stools, hunger, thirst ,etc
• Excess physical and mental exertion.
• Insufficient sleep and varying patterns, Staying awake for longer durations at night.
• Consumption of oily foods
• Exposure to cold and dry climate.

 Natural tips to take care of your skin

• Hot  water should not be used for bathing. Warm water that transfers the water temperature from cold to room temperature is sufficient for bathing and cleaning the skin.
• Use soft towel or cotton towel to pat the skin dry. Do not rub the skin with rough cloth or towel.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and soaps. They will remove the natural oils present in the skin and make it dry.
• Apply and massage your skin with a moisturizer. Moisturizer will balance the upper layers of skin and make it look soft and smooth. Recommended to apply immediately after bath as the skin is slightly moist.
• Avoid alcohol based cleaners as the skin will become dehydrated.
• Massage your skin prior to bath with coconut oil.
• Avoid oily and junk food. Follow a balanced diet which includes fruits, vegetables, milk, cereals and carbohydrates.
• Practice yoga or meditation for having a pleasant mind and keep away from stress.
• Massage your skin with herbal oil. It softens the dry skin, provides lubrication to the skin too.

People suffering with skin ailments and diabetes should be extremely careful in checking dry skin areas for any deep cracks.  Dry and cracked skin harbors microbes which cause fungal infections. Dry skin is common for those suffering with hypothyroidism, eczema,  psoriasis etc…

Methods to prevent dryness of skin:

• Preferably drink warm water ( 7 to 9 glasses). This will decrease vata dosha problem.
• Avoid hot water for bathing. Regular usage will damage the skin and the skin will lose all moisture .
• Use face pack that improves skin softness. Mix honey, egg white, olive oil and rose water and leave it for 20 mins on face. The skin softness will improve.

• Aloe vera is a good moisturizer. Few are sensitive to natural gel from the leaf , they can go for the products that are available Over the Counter (OTC) in medical stores.
• Use pH balanced soap to avoid dryness of skin .
• Drinking water or soft water is ideal for washing the face as the skin of face is very sensitive.
• Protect your skin from extreme climatic changes like cold and heat.

As you grow old the skin looses its capacity to retain moisture. You can take a little effort and maintain your skin.