Skin is considered one of the most important parts of the body. Skin also receives less blood flow and lower gland activity. The skin is often known as "the largest organ of the human body".

The dermis is the layer of skin beneath the epidermis that consists of connective tissue and cushions the body from stress and strain. The dermis is tightly connected to the epidermis by a basement membrane. The blood vessels in the dermis provide nourishment and waste removal to its own cells as well as the epidermis.

Certain drugs, including diuretics, antispasmodics, and antihistamines, can contribute to dry skin. Serious skin complications, including dry skin, can arise for people with diabetes. Nutritional deficiencies, especially deficiencies of vitamin A and the B vitamins, can also contribute to dry skin. Xeroderma can also be caused by a deficiency of vitamin A, systemic illness, overexposure to sunlight or some medications.

Thick, oily-type moisturizers work best. Drink plenty of water every day. Use bath oils and moisturizers daily.

Put 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in your smoothies. Concentrating on a diet of LOTS of fruits and vegetables (preferably uncooked) and no junk food, should give you an observable improvement within 30 days. Eat at least one organic apple with the skin on every day. Eat foods that contain essential fatty acids. Good skin is often a reflection of a good digestive system.

The best treatment I've found for dry skin is coconut oil. 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. It just takes motivation, a willingness to try it, and diligent application of coconut oil several times daily and at bedtime to see its benefits. Use bath oils and moisturizers, especially coconut oil, at least daily.

The skin must be regularly cleaned or it'll become cracked or inflamed. Unclean skin favors the development of pathogenic organisms - the dead cells that continually slough off of the epidermis mix with the secretions of the sweat and sebaceous glands and the dust found on the skin to form a filthy layer on its surface. The skin is subject to constant attack from without, so can be affected by numerous conditions, diseases and ailments.

Go to your skin doctor if dryness and itching are preventing you from sleeping. Continue using coconut oil and the benefits of good, clear skin, free of dryness and other skin conditions should be your reward. You should see the results with improved skin overnight following this advice.