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National Post

How to heal dry skin, according to a top dermatologist — products and preventatives

Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. Article content During the colder months, our bodies are often covered in layers of clothes. Then during the summer, we shed some layers and our skin makes a guest appearance. As we sport shorts, tanks and sandals, we're sometimes surprised by the state of our skin. Article content It can be off-putting when legs are so dry they look like the Sahara desert floor, cracking in the heat. Or when elbows are so rough they can injure others. Or when heels split open and start bleeding. Problems that many dry-skinned humans have to deal with on a daily basis. Article content Article content What causes dry skin? Article content 'Dry skin has lost its moisture. It can appear as dry, but also dull, scaly or flaky, and sometimes itchy. If it is prolonged, it can result in eczema (red, itchy, sometimes weepy skin),' says Dr. Barankin.'It can be due to aging, or medications (e.g. acne treatments, blood pressure pills, diuretics, statins for cholesterol), or long dry winters, and often has a genetic component too.' Article content Article content 'As skin dries, it shrinks which can cause cracking. Some cracks can be deep, and then become sore or even bleed,' shares Dr. Barankin. It can even get medical. 'Some people have cracking of heels because they have a skin condition like foot fungus (tinea pedis), psoriasis or eczema.' Article content Article content 'For dry skin or cracked heels, it's definitely worth trying some over-the-counter products first. Also, being more mindful to moisturize immediately after bathing, as well as having a cool-mist humidifier on in the wintertime,' says Dr. Barankin.