Top 5 Best Home Cures for Dry Skin

Cold weather and underlying medical conditions are just some of the many factors behind the occurrence of dry skin. Regardless of the reasons, everyone can agree that dry skin can be an uncomfortable experience. Fortunately, the remedy for dry skin is easier than you think. In fact, you can find many cures for dry skin down your local grocery aisle.

1. Sunflower Seed Oil

In a 2013 study, some volunteers applied sunflower seed oil on one forearm and olive oil on the other forearm. The results? Sunflower seed oil hydrated the skin, making it an effective skin moisturizer. Sunflower seed oil is also high in vitamin E, so it prevents skin damage by the ultraviolet light from the sun. Additionally, sunflower seed oil can also treat acne, reduce signs of aging in the skin and even works to condition the hair.

2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has many benefits and is considered an effective treatment for dry skin. Coconut oil contains saturated fats which can retain moisture and repairs the skin's barrier function. Since it's also antibacterial and anti-fungal, coconut oil can be used as a natural make-up remover or as part of a nightly skin care routine--simply massage the oil on the face, then wash with a face wash.

3. Honey

The sugars in honey act as a humectant, which means that it retains the skin's natural moisture levels. Honey can be used as an ingredient for a daily homemade moisturizer, as a face mask, and even as a toner. To restore dry skin, simply apply a thin layer of honey to damp skin and leave on for thirty minutes or more before rinsing off with warm water. Honey is also great for hair and fingernails and, like coconut oil, is antibacterial and anti-fungal.

4. Aloe Vera

Named the "plant of immortality" when it was first discovered in ancient Egypt, the gel inside of an Aloe Vera plant is commonly used to treat cuts and minor burns on the skin--but that's not all. Aloe Vera contains antioxidants and vitamins that hydrate the skin without leaving a greasy feel, which may be why it's used in a number of skin care products. Additionally, Aloe Vera is not just great for skin, but it has also been known to treat dry scalp.

5. Avocado Oil

It's already known that avocado oil has numerous health benefits, such as for heart health and to treat arthritis pain. Avocado oil is also used in many skin care products because it contains nutrients, such as vitamin E and potassium, which nourishes the skin. Avocado oil doesn't just moisturize the skin, but can also be used to treat acne, psoriasis, and has even been proven to speed up the recovery of wounds.

To treat dry skin, simply massage avocado into the skin after a bath, or you can add it to a lotion for maximum moisture.

Dry skin can be uncomfortable --but it doesn't have to last and doesn't always require expensive products. Instead, combat dry skin with these natural remedies that can be found in the local grocery store.