Skin, Chapped

All external factors and conditions including fluctuating and temperature extremes, heat and cold, pathogenic bacteria and microorganisms, the strong wind and radiation such as ultraviolet rays from sunshine all impinge on the skin, and many other factors all impinge on the human skin which excludes most of them, as it is the first line of defense the body has, it is a barrier, a protective shield that external factors first have to cross to gain access into the body. But the skin may also suffer like all other organs in the body and one of these, broken or chapped skin leads to cracking and soreness, and roughness in the complexion of the individual.

When the defense system in the skin is exhausted or impaired and the natural oils produced by the body are depleted and scarce then drying and cracking of the skin occurs, and it becomes very sore and uneven in complexion. Recurring contact with the environment factors like strong sunlight, extreme or intense cold may all be responsible for the occurrence of chapped skin in the individual, the origin of skin problems can also be linked to the utilization of soaps, and various chemicals and even water on a daily or regular basis. Neglecting the skin is the main reason for the cause of skin deterioration due to the elements simple steps like utilizing the additional protection provided from the sunlight by sun screens and lotions can greatly minimize skin problems, proper clothing is another necessity in the fight against the elements, utilizing rubber gloves when involved with cleaning and scrubbing actions involving abrasives or harsh compounds can help avoid skin damage, additionally long and overexposure to water can cause problems with the skin in an individual if proper precautions are not taken. Drying of the skin can result from depleted natural fluids or oils found in the form of essential fatty acids in the human skin and supplements must be used to replace these. Physical abrasive actions and repeated irritation to a single area of the skin can also cause redness and soreness, by chafing the skin, tight clothes must be avoided to protect against unnecessary irritations, harsh detergents in the clothes or hard and harsh fabrics and tight-fitting clothing must be avoided and discarded as they can cause a lot of irritation to the skin; wear loose and comfortable clothes made form natural fibers.

Supplements and herbs

The levels of the vitamins A, B and C or low and depleted amounts of the essential fatty acids in the person can all lead to the appearance of dry and chapped skin as a symptom. The health and smoothness of the skin along, with an excellent complexion can be engendered through the use of the oil of the evening primrose herb which is very rich in the essential fatty acids required by a normal and healthy skin. A deficiency of B complex vitamins is usually manifested as a persistent soreness or cracking skin in the lips of the patient. Another essential supplement is the very important nutrient vitamin A that promotes skin health.

A healthy and supple tone to the skin is achieved through herbs that aid the functioning of the glands and the glandular system, the circulatory system, the nerves and the digestive system, as a smooth function of these organs ensures good skin quality and promotes overall health.

External applications can assist cellular growth and promote health, topical ointments and creams of the comfrey herb can be used in this regard. The use of an ointment made form the calendula herb can be effective against chapped and dry skin and induce its regeneration. The application of essential oils made from the St. John's wort herb, or the olive or the cream of mashed avocado herb can greatly aid skin regeneration especially when used on the skin after bathing.

What else you can do

The circulation in the skin and the sebaceous glands present in them can be stimulated through dry brushing the skin early every morning. Circulation in the skin can be further enhanced by the application of cold treatments like hydrotherapy that generate skin growth and health. Dry brushing of the skin can be alternated with these treatments as a holistic procedure. To increase the production of vitamin D in the skin, moderate and limited periods of exposure to sunlight is a necessity and this can be done along with aerobic exercises carried out on a daily and regular basis. To combat the loss of moisture in the room through the utilization of central heating during winter months, use can be made of a humidifier or alternately one can place bowls of water near the heater to aid in the dispersal of some amount of moisture into the environs of the room.

Usual dosage

• Oil of evening primrose, 2x500 mg capsules thrice a day
• Vitamin A, 25,000 IU (warning: avoid during pregnancy)
• Vitamin B complex, 50 mg
• Vitamin C (with bioflavonoids) 1,500 mg

More useful herbs

• Benzoin Gum
• Black Snakeroot
• Elder
• Irish Moss
• Wild Lettuce