The symptoms most associated with dry skin are scaling, which is the visible peeling of the outer skin layer, itching and cracks in the skin. Xeroderma, the medical name for dry skin, occurs most commonly on the lower legs, arms, the sides of the abdomen and thighs and is a very common condition.

The dermis is tightly connected to the epidermis by a basement membrane. Skin is one of the most important parts of the body; it's our largest organ. The dermis is the layer of skin beneath the epidermis that consists of connective tissue and cushions the body from stress and strain.

Dry skin can also be a sign of an underactive thyroid. Environmental factors, such as exposure to sun, wind, cold, chemicals, or cosmetics, or excessive bathing with harsh soaps, can cause dry skin. 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.

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. Bathing or showering too frequently, especially if one is using harsh soaps, may contribute to dry skin. Dry skin happens more often in the winter when the cold air outside and heated air inside cause the humidity to be low.

Good clear skin is usually a reflection of having a good working non-constipated digestive system. 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. Good nutrition from living foods - foods that are alive - will help your skin from the inside out.

Apply cool compresses to any itchy areas. For any skin condition, it's always better to take a natural approach. Try using a humidifier if the air is dry and you have a severe skin condition.

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. Coconut oil is very inexpensive - a great, cheap home remedy for all skin conditions. When you buy coconut oil, make sure you get the kind that hasn't been refined, processed and deodorized.

Dry skin contributes to fine lines and wrinkles; coconut oil helps prevent the onset by keeping the skin soft and supple. Use can use bath oils and moisturizers every day, but coconut oil has the added power of healing.

Skin that's not clean favors the development of pathogenic organisms; the dead cells continually slough off of the epidermis and mix with the secretions of the sweat and sebaceous glands and the dust found on the skin, to form a layer on its surface. The skin is subject to constant attack from without; it can be affected by many conditions, diseases and ailments.

Continue using coconut oil and you'll see the benefits in good, clear skin, free of dryness and other skin conditions. You should see the results with improved skin within a few days following these dry skin tips and suggestions. Call your skin doctor if dryness and itching are preventing you from sleeping.