Dull skin, feeling of discomfort, small dead skin that appears as dandruff … You have all the signs of flaking. How to cure it ? Dr. Nina Roos, dermatologist and author of the book A skin in great shape at Solar editions enlightens us on this subject.
Peeling skin, also called flaking, is a natural phenomenon. "This is the detachment of dead cells from the stratum corneum", explains Nina Roos * dermatologist. The stratum corneum is the surface part of the skin. As normal, for skin without pathology, this peeling is not visible. Small strips of skin may appear on the surface, however, a signal that the skin is not sufficiently hydrated. “It becomes pathological when this scaling is done in depth. The skin is then covered with small scales ”, specifies the doctor. If the scaling persists, it may be necessary to consult a dermatologist for advice or to set up a suitable treatment.
What are the causes of flaking?
Many factors can be at the origin of an abnormal scaling: cold in winter, prolonged exposure to the sun in summer, the use of detergents … Certain factors can accentuate this phenomenon: "The repeated and prolonged use of an hydroalcoholic gel, too regular hand washing, which causes irritation, contact with water that is too hot or too hard". Flaking can be pathological as part of certain skin diseases such as eczema, which also causes intense redness, pimples and itching.
The beauty routine for the face
An overly cleansed face, the use of an aggressive soap or an exfoliating treatment can cause this phenomenon of flaking, irritation and give the sensation of dull skin. "In some cases, even the cream can be uncomfortable", insists the doctor. To restore radiance to the face, it is recommended "Stop touching your face with your hands, apply richer creams than usual". Borage or sweet almond oil can be perfect beauty allies. "Hydration is essential". In case of eczema and to compensate for a fatty acid deficiency, it may be necessary to apply an eczema-prone cream.
Sweet almond oil, Birth, 13.49 euros, 1 liter, on sale on Amazon (100% natural product, vegan, GMO-free)
The beauty routine for the body
It is important to moisturize your skin daily with milk or cream for dry skin, emphasizing the areas that are peeling. You can also apply the cream in small touches, at any time of the day, as soon as you experience tightness or itching. Avoid scrubs which could attack the skin.
Our selection of products:
Avène Xeracalm lipid-replenishing balm, € 19.90, on sale at Easy parapharmacy
La Roche-Posay Hydra Cream for very dry skin, € 12.72 on sale at Pharma GDD
The right things to do in summer
- Remember to protect your skin well with a sunscreen at the time of exposure.
- It is not uncommon, in fact, for the skin to peel after prolonged exposure to UV. So remember to moisturize your skin with an after-sun treatment after a tanning session.
- If the scaling is due to a sunburn, avoid making an exfoliation that would risk damaging the lower layers of the skin.
- If your skin is peeling, take a cool shower and forget about the hot water, which is more likely to attack your skin
- Never remove pieces of skin that peel even when showering
Natural remedies to fight flaking
The aloe vera
Aloe vera has healing properties. This plant relieves irritation, calms itching. However, a little clarification "aloe vera is soothing but not nourishing," warns Dr. Nina Roos.
Native aloe vera gel, 10.95 euros, Mademoiselle Bio (composed of pure extract of aloe vera leaves)
Vegetable oils
Coconut oil is healing and nourishing. Rich in fatty acids, it relieves irritation and itching. Jojoba oil is recommended for oily and combination skin. It soothes the tightness of the skin.
Olive oil
Olive oil has nourishing and healing properties.
Shea butter
Shea butter is a great ally for dry skin. It effectively nourishes and regenerates the skin.
Another option, avocado butter is recognized for its nourishing, revitalizing and protective active ingredient. 100% natural shea butter, 100gr, 6.90 euros, available on Doctipharma
And in babies and children?
"Children tend to have drier skin than adults"says Nina Roos, who recommends avoiding the use of foaming cleansers when bathing or showering. "Apply a cream or care suitable for dry skin of children", adds the doctor. You can also use a balm that calms itching or a lipid-replenishing cream.
* Find Dr Nina Roos on his website: www.monsitebeaute.com
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Baby and dry skin: how to protect it every day?
The best moisturizers: say goodbye to dry skin
Our homemade peeling recipes for a makeover