9 Natural Remedies for Dry, Sensitive Skin

Dry skin is a common problem that doesn’t have any life-threatening effects. But just because it’s something that millions of people deal with doesn’t mean it’s not annoying. When you have dry skin, it can lead to itchiness and frustration. And  sometimes, it can result in insecurities, especially if the effects of dry skin are visible. Even worse, if you have sensitive skin, it’s hard to find products that can work without aggravating your skin further. However, there are natural remedies for dry, sensitive skin that you can use, and these natural solutions are the best way to alleviate your problem. They don’t contain any chemicals or toxins, making them safe and soothing for sensitive skin. And with consistent use, they provide quick results. 

What is dry skin? 

When it comes to skin health, water plays an important role. Your skin needs naturally occurring oils and water to stay stretchy, supple, moisturized, and soft. If your skin doesn’t get these two things, it will dry out. Of course, this isn’t an ideal scenario, especially since the skin is your body’s first line of defense. It helps ward off viruses and bacteria and combats the effects of environmental toxins like pollution and radiation. If your skin isn’t at its best, it will stop functioning properly. 

What are the little-known causes of dry skin?

While a lack of moisture is the primary culprit of dry skin, other factors can lead to the issue. These factors may be surprising since you don’t regularly hear about them, but knowing each contributing cause will make it much easier to prevent dry skin. 

1. Genetics 

Sometimes, dry skin isn’t your fault. Research suggests that this problem can be genetic. For example, one study looked at protein filaggrin, which helps form and hydrate the skin. And researchers found that when there are mutations in genes that are responsible for producing protein filaggrin, it can lead to multiple skin conditions, including drier skin and eczema. 

2. Long, hot showers 

Sometimes, a long and hot shower is all you need to relax and de-stress. But surprisingly, these types of showers can lead to dry skin. A hot, long, and steamy shower will suck the moisture out of your skin. So it’s best to keep your water temperature warm and refrain from staying in the shower longer than necessary.

3. Soap 

Just like most shampoos and detergents, there are many soaps that strip moisture from your skin. If you want to avoid dry skin, you should look for face and body washes that have moisturizing and gentle ingredients. Taking this step is also important if you have sensitive skin, as harsh ingredients will aggravate your skin further. 

4. Hard Water

If you live in a city where the tap water has high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, you’re getting exposed to hard water. These minerals can result in dry skin by leaving a film.  Additionally, when water contains heavy metals, the toxins can transform the oils on your skin into a thick substance that worsens skin conditions and prevents your skin from absorbing moisturizers. Heavy metals and minerals also aggravate sensitive skin. 

5. Fragrances

It may take several exposures to fragrances for your skin to react, but scented skincare and feminine products can lead to dry skin. These items tend to irritate dry skin, and in some cases, they can make the situation worse. So it’s best to steer clear of skincare remedies and deodorants that contain a fragrance, which you can do by reading the product labels. 

What are the symptoms of dry skin?

There are clear signs that your skin is drying out. And if you can notice those warning signs, you’ll have the opportunity to quickly fix the issue before it gets worse. 

All of the symptoms are mild to severe. Here’s a quick list of the main signs of dry skin:

  •  Cracked skin 

  • Skin that burns or stings

  • Flaky skin that has a rough texture

  • Patches of scaly or itchy skin

  • Peeling skin

  • Wrinkled or loose skin 

Most likely, you’ll experience the mild symptoms of dry skin. However, it’s not unusual to see severe symptoms. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology Association indicates that there are some people who are more at risk of developing dry skin. 

Those groups include the following:

  • People who work in places that require their hands to constantly be in water, like hairdressers or nurses

  • People who live in colder environments

  • People who are over 40-years-old (the skin dries out as you age because it produces less oil)

  • People with fair or darker skin 

  • People who smoke 

While these groups are more susceptible to having dry skin, it’s important to care for your skin no matter who you are — that way, it stays healthy. But if you notice anything that doesn’t seem normal or creates a cause for concern, it’s important to seek medical attention.

9 natural remedies for dry, sensitive skin

 If your symptoms of dry skin are milder, you can use natural remedies to experience relief. These types of solutions contain ingredients that naturally provide moisture and gently hydrate sensitive skin. They’re also easy to get your hands on and are more cost-effective than traditional products. So, without further ado, here are nine natural remedies for dry, sensitive skin. 

1. An oatmeal bath 

When it comes to natural ingredients, oatmeal is a great one that works perfectly for dry, sensitive skin. In fact, a study from 2015 suggests that extracts from oatmeal contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate dry skin. So, getting creams that include oatmeal or adding powdered oatmeal to your warm bath are perfect ways to relieve dry, sensitive skin. 

2. CBD serum

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound in hemp, and it’s federally legal to use in the United States. Because of its therapeutic properties, CBD is quickly becoming a popular remedy for anxiety, depression, and of course, skin health. 

In 2019, a study found that CBD may help relieve skin conditions like dryness and itching. CBD contains anti-inflammatory properties that reduce triggers of psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis. So getting a high-quality CBD serum, like Kat’s Naturals Skin Serum with CBD, is a perfect natural remedy for dry, sensitive skin. 

3. Pumpkin Seed Oil

Rich in vitamin E, antioxidants, and omega 3- and 6- fatty acids, pumpkin seed oil is full of nourishing ingredients. This natural remedy helps your skin retain moisture and maintain a youthful appearance. Additionally, it fights free radicals that negatively impact your skin. 

What’s also great is that pumpkin seed oil contains high levels of vitamin C and zinc. And together, these properties improve your skin tone, combat acne, heal wounds faster, and help with skin renewal. 

4. Rosehip Oil 

As your skin ages and experiences extreme weather, it can easily lose hydration. However, rosehip oil contains a wealth of nourishing properties that can help your skin retain moisture. 

This natural remedy has essential fatty acids, beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), vitamin E, and vitamin C. The fatty acids, in particular, work to keep your cell walls strong so that your body doesn’t lose water. And rosehip oil is very easy for your skin to absorb, which is excellent since its antioxidant properties will penetrate deep into your skin’s layers to increase hydration. 

Also worth noting is the results from a 2015 study that indicates rosehip’s ability to moisturize your skin. Researchers analyzed participants who took rosehip powder orally, and they discovered that the participants noticed improvements in the moisture of their skin. Of course, you can also use this natural remedy topically to experience the same benefits. 

5. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant, and its primary function is to protect your skin from sun damage. However, vitamin E is also an excellent natural remedy for dry, sensitive skin. 

Usually, your body produces vitamin E through sebum, an oily substance that your pores emit. If there’s a good balance of sebum production, it’ll help your skin stay hydrated and prevent dryness. But if you’re lacking sebum, using vitamin E sources may help counteract this deficiency.

Also, vitamin E is excellent at replenishing lost lipids, which are natural fats in the skin that help your body hold onto moisture and maintain a protective barrier. 

6.  Argan Oil

Argan oil is an excellent natural remedy for dry and sensitive skin. Because of its high levels of essential fatty acids, linoleic acids, and vitamin E, argan oil is very hydrating and perfect for all skin types. 

Not only does it lightly moisturize your skin, but it also softens dry skin and rough patches. Additionally, argan oil’s antioxidant properties are especially great if you have dry skin conditions like eczema.

7. Coconut oil 

Coconut oil is another natural ingredient that’s excellent for dry skin. According to a 2014 study, researchers found that coconut oil is as effective and safe as petroleum jelly when it comes to eliminating dry skin. Researchers also found that coconut oil increased the number of lipids on the skin and drastically improved the hydration of the skin. 

Another study from 2016 also showed promising results. The researchers found that coconut oil has saturated fatty acids that contain emollient properties, which is an oil or fat that acts as a moisturizer for dry skin. 

8. Aloe vera

A 2003 study suggests that aloe vera gel is a natural remedy for dry skin. It works great for your hands and feet. All you have to do is apply the aloe vera gel to the dry area of your skin and cover it with a sock or glove. 

However, if your dry, sensitive skin is somewhere else on your body, you should apply the gel liberally. Then, let it soak into your skin. 

9. Sunflower seed oil 

Sunflower seed oil is another great way to naturally reduce dry skin. During a 2013 study, researchers found that when using this natural oil as a moisturizer on participants’ arms, it helped improve hydration. 

However, not all oils are great for dry, sensitive skin. The same study also found that olive oil hurts the skin’s barrier, so it’s best to use sunflower seed oil if you want positive results. 

Start using natural remedies for dry, sensitive skin

If you have dry, sensitive skin, you can rely on natural remedies to give you relief. You don’t need to spend money on expensive skincare products that have hidden harmful ingredients. Instead, you can use natural products that work better and are safe for sensitive skin. 

All you have to do is pick the best natural remedy for you. All of the options are great, so you can’t go wrong. But if you want guidance on which one to try first, CBD serum from a reputable company is an awesome first step. 

Kat’s Naturals offers a CBD skin serum that only contains vitamins and organic ingredients, and it’s completely vegan. So not only will it moisturize your dry skin, but it will also work for sensitive skin, too. 

Check out Kat’s Naturals Skin Serum with CBD to soothe your dry, sensitive skin. 

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