Skin contains hair follicles, sweat glands, sebaceous glands, apocrine glands and blood vessels. Our skin also receives less blood flow and lower gland activity than the other organs in our body. The dermis is the layer of skin beneath the epidermis that consists of connective tissue and cushions the body from stress and strain.

Bathing or showering too frequently, especially if one is using harsh soaps, may contribute to dry skin. Forced-air furnaces may make skin even drier than it already is. Dermatitis, contact dermatitis, eczema, seborrhea or psoriasis may cause the skin to become very dry too.

Dry skin happens more often in the winter when the cold air outside and heated air inside cause the humidity to be low. Certain drugs, including diuretics, antispasmodics, and antihistamines, can contribute to dry skin conditions; check with your pharmacist or doctor and read the drug insert - you can get one from your pharmacist. Dry skin can also be a sign of an underactive thyroid.

I put two tablespoons of coconut oil in my smoothies, which are made with fruits only - using a base of two bananas, then adding fruit, frozen or fresh-- blend well. Eating foods high in omega-3s is particularly important for people with dry skin or acne. Eat high-fiber snacks like raw nuts, raw seeds, fresh fruit or dried fruit like dates, and figs.

Natural treatments should always be the first type of treatments to consider when you want to heal and take the best care of your skin. Apply moisturizers just after a bath or shower, when your skin is still damp. Take fewer baths or showers; they'll dry out your skin even more.

I buy coconut oil by the gallon; it's cheaper for a whole gallon of coconut oil than a small jar of department store, name-brand moisturizer. Dry skin contributes to fine lines and wrinkles; coconut oil helps prevent the onset by keeping the skin soft and supple. Use a thin layer of coconut oil under your make-up, if you wear it, to moisturize and soften your skin throughout the day.

Use coconut oil to remove your make-up at night, like I do; it leaves a fine layer of oil to nourish your skin all night long; but better yet, apply more coconut oil. If you have acne, eczema or any type of dermatitis coconut oil will treat and quickly heal these skin conditions too.

The skin must be regularly cleaned or it'll become cracked or inflamed. Sunlight, water and air play an important role in keeping the skin healthy.

If your dry skin lasts for a long time and is itchy or feels hot when you touch it, see your doctor. And did I mention to drink lots and lots of water every day? Continue using coconut oil and you'll see the benefits in good, clear skin, free of dryness and other skin conditions.