Have you ever tried to mop up a spill with a dry sponge? Good luck! Well, that’s what it’s like when you’re applying lotion to your skin on these recent cold winter days. Lotions work best when your skin is already a little moist. Start with skin that’s dry and chapped…and all you’ll get is frustrated.
What can you do to treat alligator
skin? Here’s a simple trick, taught to me many years ago by an old-fashioned, neighborly pharmacist: Start by placing a bottle of body oil in your shower, next to the shampoo. Next time you shower, after you turn off the water but before you step out of the tub, pour a little puddle of the oil, about the size of a nickel, into the palm of your hand. Now spread the oil all over both hands and wherever else your skin is dry. Don’t forget the soles of your feet, your elbows and even your eyebrows — everywhere! The trick is to
do this while you are still soaking wet. The oil spreads out into a very fine layer that keeps the water on your skin and prevents you from turning into a prune. Finally, reach for your towel and dry off.
A few additional pointers: If the body oil is helping, but not enough for your very
dry skin type, try baby oil gel instead — it’s thicker. You may even find that your preferences change depending on the time of year and the weather. Just remember to apply the oil before you dry off. You’ll feel smooth and silky all day long. And your lotion will work a lot better!
By the way, this trick works great for kids and babies too.