$Unique_ID{BRK01948}
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$Title{Solutions for Dry, Flaky Skin}
$Subject{solution Solutions hint hints tip tips Dry dried Flaky Skin whitish
powder dandruff cell cells scale scales moisture moisturize moisturizer flakes
bath bathing moisturizers soap soaps detergent Drying cream creams lotion
lotions shower showers hydrate hydration humidifier humidifiers itch itching
itches}
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Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Solutions for Dry, Flaky Skin


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QUESTION:  I consider myself to be a very clean man, sometimes bathing twice a
day.  I also wear support full length socks, and I have noticed that each time
I remove them, the insides are covered with a whitish, powder like substance
that reminds me of dandruff.  No matter how much I scrub, I can't seem to rid
myself of this unsightly problem.  Have you ever encountered a problem like
mine and do you have any ideas on a solution?

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ANSWER:  It is a common enough problem, and has nothing to do with cleanliness
though your frequent bathing may be aggravating the problem just a bit.  You
are suffering from "dry skin" and those powder like material on the insides of
your socks are cell scales from the surface of your skin.  Actually your
frequent bathing may be taking moisture out of your skin, and scrubbing can be
increasing the amount of flakes that are being produced.  Regular bathing is a
fine hygienic measure, but once a day may be enough.  Certainly you will want
to consider using a mild, unscented soap that contains moisturizers, rather
than a detergent soap which is harsher.  Drying should be accomplished by
patting the surface of your skin gently with a towel rather than rubbing
briskly.
     Skin moisturizing creams and lotions come in many forms and can really
turn the situation around for you.  While water based lotions are best
cosmetically, a severe case, especially on the legs as in your case, may
profit more from a greasier cream with a high oil content.
     The secret is to apply the cream immediately after your shower, when the
hydration of your skin is at the maximum.  The cream will help to replenish
the skin's natural oily cover that helps keep the moisture in, and that your
soap may have removed during your bathing.
     Problem dry skin may be helped by two other measures.  One is to keep the
moisture content in the air of your home at high levels by using air
humidifiers.  Then keep your own inner water content high, by drinking plenty
of liquids each day.  Plain water is just fine.  Most people don't drink
enough to meet with the biological needs of their body and its skin envelope,
so adding an additional glass or two to your present intake will probably
provide you with more than just one health benefit.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.