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Dealing With Cracking, Dry Skin

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Find out why cracked, dry skin happens and what you can do about it.

Dry or cracked skin can be a real nuisance, and you must be giving your skin the care it needs to keep it hydrated. You may find that your feet or hands are particularly susceptible to cracking and dryness, especially during the cold winter months.

What Is Causing My Dry, Cracked Skin?

Pay attention to your symptoms so you can pinpoint what might be causing your dry or cracked skin. Dry skin may be the result of,

  • Exposure to hot water (e.g., washing dishes; taking a hot shower)
  • Cold weather
  • Chemicals (e.g., laundry detergent; dish soap)
  • Medications
  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Athlete’s foot

How Is Dry Skin Treated?

There are many ways to tackle dry skin depending on what’s causing it and where the dry skin is located. Luckily, dry skin can easily be treated with certain home care, including,

Using a daily moisturizer

A moisturizer will become your new best friend if you are prone to dry skin. Moisturizers lock in moisture in the skin and can be particularly helpful when applied after showering. A thick emollient moisturizer will be best for dealing with severely dry or cracked skin.

Applying petroleum jelly

Petroleum jelly is a simple topical remedy that can help protect the skin while healing cracks. Petroleum jelly can be beneficial when dealing with cracking skin or dry lips.

Gentle Exfoliation

Sometimes, exfoliation can be a great way to remove dead cells from the skin’s surface and reduce dryness and cracking, particularly on the hands and feet. After soaking feet in water for about 20 minutes, exfoliation can be done with a pumice stone. Apply a moisturizer after using the pumice stone.

When Should I See a Dermatologist?

If you’ve tried just about everything to get your dry skin under control on your own and you still aren’t seeing results after two weeks, it’s time to turn to your dermatologist. You should also call your dermatologist if your symptoms get worse or if your skin shows signs of infection, such as,

  • Bleeding
  • Pus
  • Severe or increased redness
  • Fever

If dry, cracked skin has become the norm, and no moisturizer seems to be helping, it’s probably a good idea to turn to your dermatologist for answers.

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I went for a facial with Reganne, and it was wonderful! She was the right balance of chatty and quiet so that I felt personally welcomed but also able to relax and soak in all the luxurious treatment. She also was so kind and considerate, being very careful which products she used because she knew I am sensitive to some fragrances. I scheduled my appointment for the end of my regular work week, and now, this evening I’m feeling fabulous!

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We both chose the practice for our dermatology well checks and any issues that may be discovered during those visits. Most of the practitioners have been great. I also enjoy the facial services they offer at the practice. Both estheticians I have seen there have been wonderful! They have both been very accommodating given multiple allergies that can make my skin reactive. I look forward to my time with the esthetician.

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The entire staff is courteous and very helpful. They were right on time. They work together well. They are accepting of questions and are willing to answer the questions. They offer reminders for follow up appointments. I am very pleased to be a patient of this office.

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Saw Donna and Megan, had a concerning spot on my face. I needed an injection and they put me eat ease and really helped me to feel comfortable and relaxed. Even though the needle stung a little bit I was completely distracted with easy conversation to keep my mind off of what was going on. They were incredibly reassuring and informative and I love going to see them! Thank you Donna and Megan for a quick and easy visit! :)

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Great experience from the time I arrived for the appointment til I was finished. Donna Brigham is the most professional specailist I've seen in quite some time. She is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms. Her bedside manner puts you at ease and makes you very comfortable with the procedures she is doing.

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