We are getting closer to the summer solstice, and now is the time to nourish our skin as we continue to peel the winter layers off. The skin is the largest organ of the body and adults carry an average of eight pounds of skin. Taking care of our skin is paramount to overall health and can prevent infection. Here is a four-pronged approach to protect us from the discomfort of dry, cracked skin:

Exfoliate

There are considerable benefits to exfoliating. It can help revitalize the skin, minimize blemishes and prevent clogged pores. Exfoliating can also promote production of collagen, a protein that supports skin elasticity and may reduce the appearance of fine lines. Apply a sugar scrub and/or a good loofah to the skin at least twice a week. Make sure that the product contains sugar and not salt, which will dry out the skin.

Shorter Shower Time

Dermatologists recommend cutting down the amount of time we spend in the shower per day. This advice is especially for those that take longer than 30 minutes to shower or use very hot water that can dry out the natural sebum on skin.

Moisturize

There are other reasons to moisturize than simply avoiding ashy skin. Moisturizers can enhance skin tone and hold water in the outermost layer, acting as a barrier to protect from chafing caused by the sun or wind.

In choosing the right moisturizer, if the skin is neither oily nor dry, use a water-based moisturizer. For dry skin, choose an oil-based moisturizer. If suffering from oily skin or acne, it is essential to use a product to absorb the skin’s excess oil, such as African black soap or a natural body wash containing activated charcoal. Follow up by applying a very light or oil-free moisturizer.

Drink Water

Hydration can play a significant role in skincare because it promotes healthy blood flow that distributes nutrients the body needs to thrive and helps increase the skin’s elasticity which can help diminish sagging and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For optimal hydration, try to drink at least eight, eight-ounce glasses of water each day (the 8x8 Rule).

Here are some tips to remember:

• Use a gentle cleanser as opposed to soap.
• Avoid most skincare products that contain alcohol, except for certain ones like cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol as they both are fatty alcohols made from coconut and palm oil.
• Purchase or make products that are fat-free and paraben-free to avoid ingredients that are drying and carcinogenic.
• Try to avoid dry air; use a humidifier while sleeping.
• Avoid long, hot showers or washing dishes without gloves in order to limit exposure to chlorinated water.
• Apply a body cream after a shower or a hand cream after washing hands.

Written by Chaya Braxton

Chaya Braxton is the owner of chayLEVEL Content and Communications where she consults clients on strategic communications and brand messaging. She is also a member of luxury skincare brand, Adiva Naturals, in Richmond, Virginia.