With summer coming to an end and autumn fast approaching, it appears that sun exposure, dips in the pool, and the sudden drops in temperature have left many people’s arms and legs feeling dry and dehydrated.
In fact, Absolute Collagen has spotted that searches for ‘dry arms’ and ‘dry legs’ have risen by 29% and 23%, compared to this time last year. While searches for ‘best body lotion for dry skin’ have surged by 50% in the same period.
And while facial skincare routines have never been so popular, Dr Dave Reilly, Senior Scientist at Absolute Collagen, has shared why the skin on the rest of your body requires just as much attention to stay healthy and hydrated:
“It’s easy to forget that our skin is our largest organ and needs care all over, not just on our face. Exposure to the sun, chlorine, and even air conditioning can strip the skin on our arms and legs of moisture, resulting in dry, flaky skin.
“This can not only be uncomfortable but can also speed up the ageing process, with wrinkles and fine lines becoming more pronounced. For those with certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, this environment can actually worsen them.
“For truly glowy and radiant skin, you need to combine hydrating topical skincare with the right nutrition and supplements to support your skin health from within.”
To help you care for your skin from head to toe this summer season, Dr Dave Reilly has shared some top tips:
1. Go beyond your face
A common skincare mistake is focusing all your efforts on your face while neglecting the rest of your body. But, often, the skin on your arms and legs is just as exposed to environmental factors that cause dryness and damage.
The use of soaps and shampoos when showering can strip the skin of protective oils and lead to dry and flaky skin, so body care is essential afterwards. For your post-shower routine, gently pat your skin dry and apply a rich moisturiser to your arms and legs to lock in moisture.
Look for products containing hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and shea butter to provide deep nourishment.
2. Exfoliate for better absorption
If your skin is dry and flaky, moisturiser alone might not be enough to revitalise it. Dead skin cells can build up on your skin, preventing your products from penetrating the surface and working effectively.
To help remove the buildup of dead skin cells, gently exfoliate your arms and legs once or twice a week with gloves or a body brush. This will then allow your moisturiser to absorb properly, leaving your skin feeling smoother and looking brighter.
3. Support with supplements
What you put inside your body is just as important as what you put on it. Topical creams can provide surface-level hydration, but for long-lasting results, you need to support your skin from within.
Taking supplements that support your skin can help with repair and rehydrate quicker. Supplements rich in antioxidants, like vitamin C and collagen, are great for supporting your skin’s structure and elasticity.
4. Stay hydrated throughout the day
Dehydration is one of the biggest culprits of dry, dull-looking skin. As the seasons shift and temperatures fluctuate, your skin’s hydration levels can be directly impacted.
So, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stop your skin from drying out. You can also support your hydration by eating water-rich foods like cucumber and berries, which are a great way to nourish your skin as autumn approaches!
To refresh your skin this summer, shop Absolute Collagen
Seeing Clearly: The Wellness Routine You Might Be Overlooking
