- Gently cleanse skin with a mild, pH balanced cleanser and soft cloth or disposable wash cloth (Bedside Care Foam, Bedside Care, Bedside Care Easicleanse™ Bath or Gentle Rain Extra Mild).
- Pat skin dry. Do not rub.
- Moisturize skin daily.
- Moisturizers should generally be applied 3 to 4 times per day for optimal results, although frequency of application can be adjusted depending upon the severity of the dry skin.
- Avoid excessive water exposure
- Patients with dry hands should be advised to apply moisturizers after washing their hands and throughout the day when needed.
- For those who experience dry skin in the facial area only, there is a wide range of facial moisturizers formulated for various skin types.
- Apply moisturizing creams or lotions after bathing and as needed (Sween 24, Sween Cream or Atrac-Tain Cream).
- Apply skin moisturizer within 3 minutes of getting out of bath or shower
- Advise patient to avoid scratching the affected area
- Advise patient to apply sunscreen daily, especially when going outdoors
- Allow patient to wear fabrics such as cotton that allow the skin to breathe
- Give antipruritic products, skin protectants, and topical hydrocortisone to protect areas of dry skin and to relieve inflammation, erythema, and itching.
- Keep patient hydrated. Encourage at least 8 glasses of water daily, if not contraindicated by a medical condition (eg, congestive heart failure or renal disease)
Sources:
https://www.coloplast.us/Documents/Skin/SC%20Educational%20Brochure_M5003N.pdf
