Getting Rid of Alligator Skin

By the DoItYourself.com Staff

In today’s world of air conditioning and pollution, many women find that their skin dries out quickly. One way to combat this is to move to Greenland. A more practical way is to institute a daily beauty routine and stick to it. It may take a little effort, but will be worth it in the long run.

First off, drink water – your body needs at least eight glasses of water a day to function optimally. If you’re not getting enough water, the skin is the first place to suffer. Avoid diuretics like coffee that make you lose water.

Secondly, no more long, hot baths. Hot baths are relaxing but completely dehydrate your skin. Decrease the water temperature, gradually in need - you’ll be surprised how quickly you get accustomed to it. Add bath salts or a moisturizing bubble bath for their relaxing properties.

Your skin should be mildly exfoliated daily. This can be before bathing/showering or during the same. Body brushing is performed on dry skin, before bathing/showering. Do not do this if you are pregnant or suffer from high blood pressure. Get a proper body brush – the bristles are usually a bit softer than those of a back brush. The technique is simple. Start at your feet and move your way up, always brushing towards the heart. Do not use on your face.

If you decide to exfoliate during your bath, use an exfoliating cream over your entire body, except the face. Apply by simply massaging over your skin and then rinse off.

If your skin is really dry, you can also add a few drops of baby oil to the water to soften it.

When you get out of the bath, pat, don’t rub yourself dry. Stop while you’re still slightly damp and apply a body lotion. Allow it to sink in properly before getting dressed. Use a face cream for your face.

That’s the basic daily routine. Supplement this with weekly facemasks and fortnightly or monthly body masks.