If you look on the shelf at most pharmacies or department stores, you will likely see a number of creams for getting rid of dry skin. The truth about these creams is that they are not all created equal. In fact, a number of so called moisturizing skin creams contain petroleum, alcohol, or DEA; three chemicals known to actually accelerate drying of the skin. The catch is that while these products do seem to moisturize your skin, the long term effect is that of drying, by stripping the natural oils of the skin. By removing these oils and by irritating the skin, these products not only invite bacteria, but also accelerate the aging process of the skin.



You might be thinking, if all skin creams are not created equal, then there must be some that are both safe and effective, and you are right. What consumers should really be looking for are natural topical creams for dry skin. Natural creams are certainly safer, and when they contain the right ingredients, they are much more effective. Natural creams will never contain alcohol or any synthetic chemicals or toxins.

These creams use natural minerals and plant extracts, things that are living and active and therefore beneficial to the skin without having to be altered or manufactured. The rule of thumb when it comes to any skin care product is to never put anything on your skin that would not be safe to eat. What many people do not know is that when creams are absorbed into the skin, a portion of them is also absorbed into the bloodstream.

Good skin creams will always give a full ingredient listing and will state that they are all natural. The key is to read the back of the packaging and look for obvious artificial chemicals, such as alcohol or fragrances. Fragrances are unnecessary in natural skin creams, because there are no chemical smells to cover up. Fragrances can also irritate the skin, and are allergens for many people. If there are products you can not identify, there are two things you can do.

If the ingredient ends in a suffix that is typically on the end of alcohols or chemicals, you will typically want to avoid it, and if the ingredient is something you are unsure of, look it up before putting it on your skin. Science is beginning to link a number of illnesses and conditions to toxins found in skin creams, shampoos, and even drinking water.

When you have the choice, natural topical creams for dry skin are always your best bet. They are better at curing the actual problem, and they are safer to use as well. Without chemicals and additives, you know you are getting a product filled only with products that are formulated to give you the healthiest skin possible. While these products often cost more, this is one instance where you truly do get what you pay for. In addition, many of the truly reputable manufacturers offer a trial basis or money back guarantee to show their faith in the product.

Believe me, once you try a product that was truly made only to benefit you, you will never use an artificial skin cream again.