Skin Care Do’s and Don’ts
Skin Care Do’s
- Check your skin daily for dryness, cracks, sores, bruises, reddened area, and blisters.
- Cleanse the skin with a mild, pH balanced product. Remember, some people do not require overall cleansing on a daily basis.
- Use warm-to-the-touch (on elbow or inner wrist) bathing water.
- Treat the skin gently without stretching, tugging, or pulling.
- Remove all residue of the cleanser from the skin.
- Use a very soft brush for nails and crusty skin.
- Dry all skin folds and creases with special attention to the areas between, under, and around the toes.
- Moisturize the skin after cleansing. Leave a light film or moisture on the skin just prior to applying lotion or cream.
- Lubricate dry skin with a heavy (barrier) product after moisturizing.
- Wear soft clothing. Wear white socks for feet and gloves for hands, if indicated, for extra protection at night.
- Use baking soda powder or equivalent powders for foot care if perspiration is a problem. It will help with odor and moisture control. Sprinkle on hands, dusting off excess, and gently rub into the skin.
Skin Care Don’ts
- Don’t neglect new areas of irritation, soreness, or discomfort on the skin.
- Don’t soak for more than ten minutes in the tub.
- Don’t bathe in hot water.
- Don’t use abrasive or rough washcloths on the skin.
- Don’t apply lotion or creams between, under, or around the toes or nails.
- Don’t use lanolin, coal tar, or petroleum-based products if you have sensitive skin.
- Don’t use skin care products with alcohol and/or extensive lists of preservatives.
- Don’t apply tape of any kind to dry, sensitive, or fragile skin.
