Moisturizing for Dry Skin Care

Excessively dry skin can put a great dampener on our overall appearance. Dry skin lacks the glow and the sheen of normal skin. It can become easily scratched and cracked, due to which there could be bruises on the skin even with slight frictions.

Dry skin also loses its natural color. For all these reasons, it is very necessary to get dry skin treated and to use a proper moisturizing cream or lotion.

Thus lets address the following moisturizing topics and concerns

Prevention of dry skin

Dry skin risk factors

Role of a skin moisturizing lotion or product

What can a moisturizing cream provide more effectively?

Who should use an oil free moisturizer?

What is a moisturizing soap? and a moisturizing gel?

Beyond dry skin moisturizing... proper skin repair and skin regeneration

What can a facial moisturizer achieve?

It is necessary to use a daily moisturizer?

Is a face moisturizer all you need?

What can you expect from body moisturizing?

Why in winter an oil moisturizer can be the best moisturizer?

Why is moisturizing an essential step in anti aging skin care?

 

Preventing Dry Skin - Moisturizing to Keep Skin Protected

Dry environments with air conditioning can even turn skin very dry and cracked or cause excessively dry skin to the point of cracking skin tissues, so it is important to prevent dryness and do what is necessary to help the skin retain natural moisture or restore a normal moisture level by humidifying your environment – purchasing a room humidifier will help towards maintaining acceptable humidity levels.

Dry Skin Risk Factors

Environmental factors such as excessive sun exposure and pollutants in the air can damage the skin. Dry skin is often a problem in cooler climates, especially during winter months when home heating systems are used regularly. This unhumidified heat is dry and draws moisture from the skin. Outdoors, cold winter air causes the body to protect itself by drawing blood away from the skin. When this occurs, the skin is not well nourished and xerosis can result.

Xerosis is a medical term for dry skin. When it results in skin that is scaly and itchy, the condition is called pruritus. This occurs when natural moisture is drawn out of the skin.

Xerosis can be caused by many factors, including:

washing with excessively hot water,

using nonmoisturizing soap,

showering or bathing more than once a day, and

bathing for long periods of time

Xerosis occurs most often on the legs but may be present on the hands and trunk. It is a problem for 59% to 85% of people older than 64 years; it is one of the most common dermatological conditions found in long-term care. Evidence suggests that xerosis increases the risk for additional clinical problems such as discomfort, pruritus, infection, skin tears, and pressure ulcers.

The skin needs moisture to protect itself. The best way to relieve dry skin is to use a moisturizer. Too much water can cause the skin to dry out. Habitually showering or bathing more than once a day should be avoided to prevent dry skin.

Scientifically, effective moisturizing involves 4-steps:

Repairing the skin barrier

Increasing water content

Reducing water loss

Restoring the skin’s ability to attract, hold and redistribute water

The barrier function of the skin

The barrier function of the upper layer of the skin, or stratum corneum (SC), depends on the presence of unique intercellular lipids in the SC. In contrast, the water-holding capacity of the SC that keeps our skin surface smooth and soft is dependent on the amounts of intecellular lipids and water-soluble small molecules such as amino acids of the SC as well as skin surface lipids. In various dermatoses that involve the epidermis, the SC barrier function becomes defective together with the development of scaling and fissuring on the skin surface.

In healthy skin, skin cells called corneocytes detach from neighboring cells and are replaced by younger cells from the deeper layers. This orderly process of skin cell loss from the skin surface (desquamation) is controlled primarily by two intercellular components, corneodesmosomes and lipids, that provide for the maintenance of tissue thickness.

Corneodesmosomes bind the corneocytes to maintain intercellular cohesion and tissue integrity and eventually must be broken down for desquamation to be effective. In healthy skin, this process, corneodesmolysis, eliminates the corneodesmosomes. In xerotic skin, corneodesmosomes persist and disturb the orderly desquamation process, resulting in the formation of visible, powdery flakes on the skin surface.

Free water also is necessary to control the corneodesmolysis process. Adequate lipid content is required to retain the free water. Inadequately hydrated skin cannot provide this free water; therefore, deficits in both skin hydration and lipid content play a key role in xerosis. Consequently, the skin’s inability to retain moisture and provide an effective barrier directly affects the development of xerosis.

Restoring the skin’s ability to attract, hold and redistribute water

Dry skin is also a consequence of a reduction in the concentration of the skin's water-holding sugar and protein molecules, the complex proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) or carbohydrate molecular chains.

The major organic (i.e. carbon-containing) components of human cells are lipids, proteins, various carbohydrates and carbohydrate-containing molecules, and the nucleic acids (DNA and RNA).

The carbohydrate-containing molecules are complex polysaccharides. Those with carbohydrates attached to proteins or lipids are called glycoconjugates. There are three major classes of glycoconjugates: glycoproteins, proteoglycans, and glycolipids.

Glyco comes from the Greek word that means "sweet" and refers to monosaccharides, polysaccharides or sugars. The role of carbohydrates (sugars) in energy production is well understood. However, their additional, crucial role in orchestrating the healthy structure and function of the body is a relatively new discovery that is the subject of a new bourgeoning field of science called the “sweet science of glycobiology”.

The polysaccharide content of the skin is responsible for skin hydration and water binding within the skin as well as for skin repair and skin renewal.

Lipids and fats in the skin structures retain water and avoid water loss

Lipids and fats in the skin provide the epidermal barrier to transcutaneous water loss. These lipids in the upper skin area called the stratum corneum are arranged in layers called lamellae. The lower skin layers contain more typical fats such as triglycerides and phospholipids while the upper layers have more ceramides, cholesterol and free fatty acids.

Waxes and oils placed on the skin seal the skin's surface and prevent excess water loss. Cosmetic moisturizers loosen the skin's protective barrier and hydrate (wet) the skin proteins but have the long-term effect of damaging the skin.

Proteoglycans and Glycosaminoglycans retain water within the skin and thus truly moisturize it, are active regulators of cell function, participate in cell-matrix interactions and play an important biological role in fibroblasts proliferation.

Proteoglycans (PGs) are complex macromolecules consisting of a core protein and one or more covalently attached glycosaminoglycan chain. The biological functions of proteoglycans results primarily from the structurally dominant glycosaminoglycans emanating from the protein core of the molecule.

Glycosaminoglycans modulate the activity of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling which is crucial in a wide range of important biological activities with differential effects in various cell types. They affect FGF signaling by interacting with both the growth factor and the FGF receptor.

These two types of molecules (GAGs and PGs) are vital intercellular substances that are always present in our skin in abundant quantity when it is in a healthy state. These substances may be present also in skin care products that aim to restore the capacity of the skin to hold in water (e.g. hyaluronic acid, glycoconjugates, polysaccarides) and they are quite effective natural moisturizers but they only become the best facial quencher for thirsty skin when their production within the skin matrix is triggered by those or other appropiate cosmetic ingredients.

GAGs are usually found in the extracellular matrix of vertebrate and invertebrate tissues. A large number of animal species contain GAGs and mollusks are a particularly rich source of these polysaccharides. A structural investigation revealed that GAGs in invertebrate species often contain unusual variations of sulfate distribution and uronic acids and play important biological functions as promoters of the proliferation of those same molecules in the skin matrix. More GAGs in the skin means a moisture-rich state, with much better moisture retention, tighter skin and strengthenning of fragile and flay skin.

Also as we age, we experience a reduction of the polysaccharide content of the dermis that is responsible for hydration of the skin... a reduction of the water-binding capacity of the skin. This may lead to the appearacne of premature lines and wrinkles that are otherwise concealed by healthy, "plump" skin.

Fibroblast Growth Factors are polypeptides (proteins) that bind to receptors on the cell surface, with the primary result of activating cellular proliferation and/or differentiation. Many growth factors are quite versatile, stimulating cellular division in numerous different cell types; while others are specific to a particular cell-type. There are at least 21 distinct members of the FGF family of growth factors.

Fibroblast growth factors act specifically on various types of epithelial cells including keratinocytes of the skin, intestinal epithelial cells and hepatocytes. In addition, some types of Fibroblast Growth Factor have been shown to be more than growth factors: they can protect epithelial cells from damaging effects induced, for example, by radiation and oxidative stress.

The main function of fibroblasts is to maintain the structural integrity of connective tissue by continuously secreting precursors of the extracellular matrix. Fibroblasts and the glycoconjugates mentioned are critical in wound healing as such dynamic process is interactive and depends on proper regulation of fibroblasts, the cells in the basal layer of the skin that give rise to all the structural elements in a healthy skin matrix (also known as the extracellular matrix).

These structural elements comprise collagen and elastin connective tissues and glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans. Without proper regulation of fibroblast activity excessive scarring results and is a feature of impaired healing (keloid and hypertrophic scars, specially in people with highly pigmented skin), a serious health problem that most of the time affects people's quality of life for the treatment cost of such lesions is high, and often, the results are unsatisfactory.

Also as we age, the total collagen content of skin and elastin fiber content decreases, leading to a potential decrease in skin firmness. The stimulation of collagen production is necessary in aged individuals in order to maintain firm and healthy skin.

Tissue damage stimulates fibrocytes and induces migration and readily proliferation of fibroblasts in multiple stages of tissue repair including wound contraction. Fibroblasts can give rise to other cells, such as bone cells, fat cells, and smooth muscle cells. All those are cells of mesodermal origin, which means a layer from which the organs and tissues of the body develop through further differentiation.

What works for dry skin relief?

Many skin moisturizers and emollient products sold by cosmetic companies delay the healing of irritated and damaged skin and make the situation worse by inhibiting natural skin repair and increasing skin damage in ways similar to skin irritants. Occluding creams or moisturizing creams marketed for dry skin such as those containing petrolatum and lanolin to block water loss do not make things better either.

What helps dry skin is to protect the skin surface and to help the skin heal from within, by providing at the site of skin damage ingredients that help the skin repair itself thoroughly.

Skin-care products are only as good as what they contain and how their ingredients help your skin function better. In fact, moisturizers (or any skin-care product claiming to have an effect on SKIN REPAIR, wrinkles or sagging skin) should absolutely contain a mix of antioxidants, cell-communicating ingredients, and intercellular substances as those are the ingredients that help skin keep a normal level of hydration, build collagen and prevent cellular damage.

Not the popular dry skin creams that have been in the market since the 1920's, when the cosmetic industry begun to promote oil/water/detergent creams for moisturizing instead of the vegetable oils that had been used for thousands of years. This was similar to the fallacious campaigns, we may all remember, that aimed to stop women from breast feeding their babies and promoted their replacement with synthetic infant formulas sold for profit.

The ideal moisturizing product should be:

An effective moisturizer – providing moisture to the upper layer of skin and reducing and preventing water loss

An emollient – making skin smooth and supple and reducing water loss

An aid in restoring the lipid barrier, that enhances the skin’s natural moisture retention mechanisms

Moisturizing to sensitive skin – that is, hypoallergenic, non-sensitizing, fragrance free, non-comedogenic (does not cause pimples)

Long lasting

Absorbed rapidly providing immediate hydration

BIOSKINBALM is recommended for the management of moderate to severe, endogenous or acquired, rought scaly, dry skin (xerosis) conditions (e.g., due to: psoriasis, ichthyosis, metabolic diseases, atopic dermatitis, xerosis of elderly people [senile pruritus], feet xerosis, asteatotic or stasis eczema, etc), as well as for the management of hyperkeratosis (e.g., dry and cracked heels, elbows etc).

What makes BIOSKINBALM customers rave about it?

BIOSKINBALM includes a NATURAL BIOLOGICAL GLYCOCONJUGATES COMPOUND that dissolves damaged and abnormal tissues, triggers skin regeneration and is a powerful antioxidant plus ROSE HIP OIL, a natural source of both trans retinoic acid (Vitamin A) and essential fatty acids that act in synergy with HYALURONIC ACID a deep moisturizer, and PENTAVITIN a carbohydrate moisture retainer, to rescue, repair and restore sensitive, dry, irritated skin back to health and vitality.

BIOSKINBALM is not a pharmaceutical, drug or medicine. The full ingredient list is: (1) Water; (2) Rose Hip Seed Oil; (3) Helix Aspersa Müller Glycoconjugates, the richest biological adaptogen for healthy skin yet known, created by a living creature to function as a biological antimicrobial, inflammatory-moderator, antioxidant, moisturizer & trigger of scarless healing & skin regeneration; (4) Olive Oil emulsifier, surfactant, and squalene derivatives that replenish the lipid content of the skin blocking the penetration of allergens and toxins and act as antioxidants; (5) Seaweed Extract a rich source of oligoelements that are necessary for cellular growth, (6) Hyaluronic Acid moisturizer a naturally occuring skin substance capable of holding more water than any other known hydrator; (7) Chamomile for inflammatory skin conditions. It is good for sensitive skin, and helpful in dermatitis; (8) Pentavitin™, Saccharide Isomerate, a carbohydrate complex similar to that found in the stratum corneum of the skin that retains water by tightly binding water to keratin; (9) A preservative made only with botanical extracts in minute quantity, and nothing else.

The preservative contains: Origanum Vulgare (Oregano) Leaf Extract (and) Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Extract (and) Cinnamomum Zeylanicum (Cinnamon) Bark Extract (and) Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract (and) Lavandula Augustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract (and) Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Extract (and) Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Extract (and) Hydrastis Canadensis (Golden Seal) Root Extract (and) Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract.

Testimonials

This is my second order. I was so happy to had found a moisturizing lotion & healing product that truly works. I had a couple bad acne spots on my cheeks and chin that would never clear up. I started using this cream and within a few days I noticed the acne was not coming back. I have been using this cream for at least a month now and I will say my cheeks have never looked this good in about 1 yr. The dark sports are quite a bit lighter also. No more red spots either on my chin. This truly is a terrific product. I have tried everything to clear up these problem spots. Now all I do is use an antibacterial soap to clean my face and then apply the cream. THANK YOU!!!! Lisa Olivardia. Orlando, FL.

I have used your BIOSKINCARE product for many months and recommend it to everyone. I used it to treat adult acne. Now I tried your BIOSKINBALM and I've found it is wonderful for dry winter skin such as my roomie has. I even used it on my baby's diaper rash. Your products are awesome. Jennifer G, Pompano Beach, Florida, USA.

Skin Care Moisturizing and First Aid Treatment
I absolutely love this cream. The feel of it going on and of the skin after is delightful. We have used it on burns, scars, and rashes. It is a must in our house from now on as a skin moisturizer and first aid treatment. Nothing else compares to it, no matter how high-end or expensive. I LOVE IT. Thank you. C. Ballard. Maryland, US.

All Natural Moisturizer & Skin Repair Product
Love this stuff, great for scar repair and as a general moisturizer!!! Pam Corbishley. GA, USA

BIOSKINBALM ™ for dry skin relief, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, skin rashes, rosacea symptoms and more...

 

Made in the USA. 50 grams = 1.76 oz

One Bottle: $69.99

BIOSKINCARE™ has a two fold effect: (1) Purifies the cells & decongests tissues as it helps to eliminate waste, toxins, and all damaged structures. (2) Favors cellular regeneration.

It leaves your skin smooth, refreshed, soft and with use over a period of time it takes away all imperfections and blemishes: acne, scars, keratosis bumps, razor nicks and burns, actinic keratosis lesions, roughness, dryness, eczema, dermatitis, the effects on the skin of radiotherapy for cancer, blisters, scrapes, cuts, and the list can go on and on... It spectacularly brightens and enhances the complexion.

Made in the USA. 50 grams = 1.76 oz

Save at least 20% off price & save on shipping costs
when you order more than one jar

One Bottle: $69.98

Two Bottles: $55.98 each

Ultra Exfoliate Your Skin with BIOSKINEXFOL

Home microdermabrasion cream. Contains the same natural ingredients in BIOSKINCARE but infused with micro-crystals so that you may rub it with your finger tips to remove old, hard, and tough scars or stretch marks by a physical breakdown of the scar tissues. Best also for oily skin and aged skin, actinic keratosis scales, pitted acne scars. Not for keloids and not if your skin is still fragile (use BIOSKINCARE for a few months first to strengthen your skin). Enzymes in the cream liquefy damaged proteins more thoroughly helping to release amino-acids to aid in rebuilding damaged tissues quickly. Results are not only immediate, but compound over time and do not trigger inflamm-aging of delicate skin tissues.

 

Microdermabrasion Benefits

Made in the USA. Two to Three Month's supply 120 grams = 4.23 oz

120 Gram Bottle: $89

Most common problematic dry skin conditions

Atopic Dermatitis and nummular eczema subsequent to senile xerosis are exacerbated by hypersensitivity reactions to various environmental protein antigens (allergens) that penetrate through damaged skin forming fine fissures. Although treatment with moisturizing agents can improve the water-holding capacity of the skin, it cannot effectively restore the barrier function of the SC. Thus, the effects of moisturizers are distinct from those of skin-protective barrier creams.

The pruritic, erythemic, dry, scaly, cracked, or fissured skin characteristic of xerosis is a result of the loss of natural moisturizing factors and barrier abilities, as well as epidermal water loss.

Pruritus is the unpleasant sensation that elicits the urge to scratch. It has been cited as the most common and distressing anti-inflammatory skin condition. Although pruritus has several different causes, xerosis is thought to be associated with up to 85% of pruritus cases.

Infection. The scratching and rubbing of pruritus produces excoriation, inflammation, or secondary lesions. Subsequently, environmental allergens and pathogens can easily penetrate the skin, increasing the risk of allergic and irritant contact dermatitis and infection.

Staphylococcus and streptococcus species are part of the normal flora of the skin but when the stratum corneum is compromised due to pruritus, these species become sources of infection such as impetigo. Scratching also can drive pathogens into a wound or lesion to cause infection.

Pressure ulcers are areas of localized tissue destruction caused by the compression of soft tissue over bony prominence and an external surface for a prolonged period of time. More than 1 million individuals develop pressure ulcers each year. The average hospital incurs $400,000 to $700,000 annually in direct costs to treat pressure ulcers.

Dry stratum corneum may be a precursor to pressure ulcer development. Pressure ulcer development can be partially offset by the use of moisturizers to facilitate stratum corneum hydration. This is particularly important for the elderly patient population; aging skin is drier, more prone to cracking, and slower to recover from the effects of cleansing products.

Healthcare agencies that implement focused skin care protocols to prevent pressure ulcers and intervene as early as possible have been able to demonstrate reductions in the prevalence and incidence of pressure ulcers. Based on expert opinion and panel consensus, the AHRQ Pressure Ulcer Prediction and Prevention Guidelines recommend that dry skin be treated with moisturizers.

Eczema is dry skin that develops into red, itchy, or painful patches that become cracked (fissured). The skin protects the body against infection, and if the outer layer of skin (epidermis) becomes cracked or broken, the chance of infection, including cellulitis (inflammation of the subcutaneous tissue), increases. This condition must be treated immediately by a physician.