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

Forced-air furnaces may make skin even drier than it already is. Nutritional deficiencies, especially deficiencies of vitamin A and the B vitamins can also contribute to dry skin or result in a chronic dry skin condition that's not relieved by anything else. Dry skin can also be a sign of an underactive thyroid.

Dry skin can be due to a genetic condition but it's not common. Dry skin happens more often in the winter when the cold air outside and the heated air inside cause low humidity. When the skin loses moisture it may crack and peel, or become irritated and inflamed.

Eat an avocado every day; put it in your salad or mash it up and eat it with a spoon. Get 20-30 minutes of sunshine daily on your arms and/or legs; sunshine triggers the body's production of Vitamin D3, which is essential to having healthy skin. When the skin is dry and dehydrated, dead skin cells remain on the skin which may block pores and promote acne, zits, blemishes, or other breakouts; drink plenty of pure water.

Try using a humidifier if the air is dry and you have a severe skin condition. Cosmetics should be used carefully because they may dry out the skin or cause allergic reactions like contact dermatitis; read the labels. For any skin condition, it's always better to take a natural approach.

Dry skin contributes to fine lines and wrinkles; coconut oil helps prevent the onset by keeping the skin soft and supple. To see what coconut oil can do for your skin fast, apply coconut oil several times a day and at bedtime. If you have acne, eczema or any type of dermatitis coconut oil will treat and quickly heal these skin conditions too.

After a soothing bath or shower at night just before bedtime, apply a thin layer of coconut oil over your entire body; it'll even last on your skin through your shower in the morning. Apply coconut oil to irritated or chapped lips as well; it's edible, so it's safe and so healing to the lips.

The skin must be regularly cleaned or it'll become cracked or inflamed. Many skin conditions can be converted into clear, healthy skin by using cheap natural home remedies.

It's time to call your doctor for an appointment when all your home remedies do not relieve your dryness and itching. See your doctor or naturopathic doctor if your skin doesn't improve in spite of your best efforts. You should see the results with improved skin within a few days following these dry skin tips and suggestions.