by Angela Tague
During the dry winter months, body lotion can be a lifesaver. It moisturizes dry legs, heals chapped hands, and soothes dry feet. But are you applying the lotion correctly? Although you can rub on lotion whenever you want, the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology recommends prepping the skin before using lotion.
Getting Ready & Exfoliating Dry/Dead Skin
Before grabbing your favorite body lotion, spend some time in the shower or bath tub. Use warm water--not hot--to maintain your skin's natural oils. Then cleanse yourself with a soft natural sponge or washcloth. Use a pumice stone to remove calluses and dry skin from the soles of your feet. Also, a salt scrub will work wonders in removing dead skin cells which block moisture absorption. A warm soak of 15 minutes or less will dilate your pores and make them ready to accept a moisturizing body lotion. Lightly towel dry your skin, leaving a few water droplets behind.
Applying the Lotion
Apply the lotion within three minutes of exiting the bath or shower to get the most absorption from your lotion. Use a water-based lotion on areas prone to acne or blemishes. Try an oil-based lotion on dry skin. I like using SEACRET's Pomegranate, Ocean Mist, or Milk & Honey Body Butter. In addition to being ideal for hydration and moisture, it restores that healthy glow to your skin. Also, a little goes a long way.
More Application Tips
Rub the lotion into your skin using a circular motion so you go over the same area a few times. This works the lotion deep into your pores. Make sure to moisturize all areas that will be exposed to the sun, which can draw moisture from the skin. Don't forget to use body lotion on your neck, ears, and arms. If your skin is extremely dry, consider installing a humidifier in your home and increasing your daily intake of water.
Getting Ready & Exfoliating Dry/Dead Skin
Before grabbing your favorite body lotion, spend some time in the shower or bath tub. Use warm water--not hot--to maintain your skin's natural oils. Then cleanse yourself with a soft natural sponge or washcloth. Use a pumice stone to remove calluses and dry skin from the soles of your feet. Also, a salt scrub will work wonders in removing dead skin cells which block moisture absorption. A warm soak of 15 minutes or less will dilate your pores and make them ready to accept a moisturizing body lotion. Lightly towel dry your skin, leaving a few water droplets behind.
Applying the Lotion
Apply the lotion within three minutes of exiting the bath or shower to get the most absorption from your lotion. Use a water-based lotion on areas prone to acne or blemishes. Try an oil-based lotion on dry skin. I like using SEACRET's Pomegranate, Ocean Mist, or Milk & Honey Body Butter. In addition to being ideal for hydration and moisture, it restores that healthy glow to your skin. Also, a little goes a long way.
More Application Tips
Rub the lotion into your skin using a circular motion so you go over the same area a few times. This works the lotion deep into your pores. Make sure to moisturize all areas that will be exposed to the sun, which can draw moisture from the skin. Don't forget to use body lotion on your neck, ears, and arms. If your skin is extremely dry, consider installing a humidifier in your home and increasing your daily intake of water.
