Dry Skin- how to manage?
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RN is a 38-year-old woman who comes to the pharmacy complaining of dry skin. She states that her skin is very dry, even though she’s been applying lotion for a week. She doesn’t regularly use lotion, but her skin has been so dry lately that it’s cracking, so she started applying lotion. RN has no medical conditions and takes no medications. She wants to know if there is a lotion that works better than the one she is currently using. What lotion would you recommend for her dry skin?
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@chandi Dry skin is very common, especially in the dry climates. It is important to educate RN about daily moisturizing. RN should not use hot water when showering, and should instead shower with water no more than 3°F above body temperature. In addition, she should stay in the water for only 3 to 5 minutes. Within 3 minutes of getting out, RN should pat her body dry and apply a body lotion. It is recommended that she apply body lotion at least 3 or more times during the day to the whole body or at least the affected areas. For more severe cases of dry skin, products containing urea and lactic acid can enhance hydration. Also, increasing her water intake to at least 8 glasses per day can be beneficial.