How to Treat Those DRY ELBOWS

 

Why do we get dry elbows?

While our skin is our largest organ, it does vary from head to toe in how thick the skin is with our elbows having the thickest layer of dead cells (stratum corneum). 

There can be a build-up of dead cells that come with excess rubbing.  If for example you tend to sit with your elbows on a desk for hours at a time, you can be more at risk from dry patches on those elbows.  If this is a problem for you, it is suggested wearing long sleeves when appropriate.

As well as the skin on the elbows being extra thick, it also has less oil glands for lubrication. 

How to treat dry elbows?

Obviously, avoid leaning on them as much as possible.

In addition, gentle exfoliation of the skin on the elbows to lessen existing dead cell building up is helpful to prevent and treat dryness.

Another suggestion is to use an enzyme scrub when showering.  This can be massaged into the elbows and left on for several minutes before washing off so that those enzymes can work to dislodge the dead cells on the surface of the elbow skin.

Once the shower is over and the area gently patted dry, moisturizing is key.  One suggestion is to apply coconut oil at bedtime and then cover with a bandage or other cloth to enhance the penetration of the coconut oil into the skin. 

Healing Natural Oils has two ideal beauty products to use on problem elbows

Firstly, our own Simply Body Oil Formula (made from a blend of pure natural essential oils and cold pressed/expeller pressed precious oils) can be applied to the affected areas during the daytime for optimum moisturization.

This luxurious body treatment instantly improves the skin's natural moisture, deeply hydrating, softening and enhancing the look of the skin (on the elbows) by providing nourishment.

 

Secondly, we would also suggest Simply Vitamin Skin Oil as a night-time solution. 

While this is one of a kind nutritional blend of oils that we would normally recommend for feeding the delicate skin on your face and neck, in this instance - and when your elbows are crying out for help - it would provide a great solution.

The Formula is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and Omega fatty acids, all essential for the balance and nourishment of your skin with a very special list of ingredients.

Applying a generous amount to the elbows just before bed will provide a deep nourishing moisture treatment.

 

 

As a postscript…

Remember that it is not only what you apply to your skin that matters, but also a daily healthy routine:  hydration by drinking plenty of water, exercising regularly, getting lots of fresh air, eating a healthy diet while avoiding those products high in chemicals and synthetics.

 

Sources

Moncrieff G, et al. Use of emollients in dry-skin conditions: Consensus statement. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology. 2013;38:231. (Accessed, 5 September, 2021).

Dry skin. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. http://www.aocd.org/page/DrySkin. (Accessed, 5 September, 2021).

Dry skin. American Academy of Dermatology. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/dry-sweaty-skin/dry-skin.(Accessed, 5 September, 2021).

Goldsmith LA, et al., eds. Cosmetics and skin care in dermatology. In: Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. 8th ed. New York, N.Y. The McGraw-Hill Companies; 2012. http://www.accessmedicine.com. (Accessed, 5 September, 2021).