Extremely dry skin can be more than just a minor inconvenience—it's often a persistent, uncomfortable condition that affects daily life. Accordingly, 69% of people with dry skin experience significant dryness, especially during colder months. This highlights the pervasive discomfort that comes with the season.
Cracked, itchy, and irritated skin looks unsightly and can lead to pain and increased susceptibility to infections. Traditional moisturizers may provide temporary relief, but those with severely dry skin often fall short, leaving sufferers frustrated and searching for more effective solutions.
However, there is hope for those struggling with extremely dry skin. Specially formulated ointment moisturizers can provide the intense hydration and protection that severely dry skin craves.
These products create a protective barrier, lock in moisture, and help repair the skin's natural defenses. These ointments offer a powerful solution to combat even the most stubborn cases of dry skin, potentially bringing long-awaited relief and healing. Continue reading to learn which of the best ointment moisturizers suits you!
Moisturizers and Skin Barrier Function
Moisturizers play a vital role in dermatological care by enhancing the skin's water content and fortifying its natural protective barrier, crucial for managing conditions like eczema and xerosis.
They help maintain skin hydration, crucial for the skin's integrity, and facilitate natural skin turnover processes by promoting enzymatic reactions necessary for peeling skin.
Furthermore, maintaining adequate hydration is essential, especially for extremely dry skin, as it helps restore and strengthen the skin's barrier.
This barrier is vital for preventing moisture loss and protecting against irritants and allergens. A systematic review underscores the importance of emollients and moisturizers in managing chronic skin conditions characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
Types of Effective Ingredients for Ointment Moisturizer
Different types of ointment moisturizers contain various key ingredients that contribute to their effectiveness in treating extremely dry skin:
1. Humectants
Humectants, such as hyaluronic acid, urea, and glycerol, draw water from the deeper layers of the skin and the environment into the outermost layer, helping to keep the skin hydrated.
Urea-containing creams have been shown to improve skin dryness, although they can sometimes cause adverse reactions.
2. Occlusives
Occlusives like petrolatum, lanolin, and dimethicone form a barrier on the skin surface, preventing moisture loss. They are particularly effective for extremely dry skin as they help to maintain hydration by creating a protective layer.
Studies indicate that occlusives are beneficial in reducing the frequency of eczema flares and the need for topical corticosteroids.
3. Emollients
Emollients, such as mineral oil, shea butter, and ceramides, fill in the gaps between skin cells, making the skin smoother and softer.
Ceramides, in particular, are essential as they help reinforce the skin's natural barrier, improving its ability to retain moisture and protect against environmental damage.
Application and Efficacy of Moisturizers
The application method significantly influences the effectiveness of ointment moisturizers. These products should be applied immediately after bathing when the skin is damp for optimal results. This practice helps to trap moisture and enhance the skin's hydration levels.
A systematic review highlighted that consistent moisturizer use could improve disease severity, prolong the time to flare, and reduce the need for additional treatments.
Furthermore, applying moisturizer immediately after a shower can prevent water loss and improve skin hydration.
This organization also emphasizes choosing products with ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to enhance moisturizing effects.
Adverse Effects and Considerations of Using Ointment Moisturizer
While ointment moisturizers are generally safe, some individuals may experience adverse reactions such as stinging, pruritus, or erythema.
It is important to select products free from fragrances and other potential allergens to minimize the risk of irritation, especially for sensitive skin.
For those with extremely dry skin, it is also recommended to avoid products containing alcohol, fragrances, dyes, and other chemicals that can exacerbate dryness and irritation.
Selecting a non-comedogenic moisturizer can help prevent pore clogging and further skin issues.
Top 7 Best Ointment Moisturizers for Extremely Dry Skin
We have researched the top 7 ointment moisturizers and selected them based on their effectiveness for extremely dry skin, ingredient quality, and user satisfaction.
These ointment moisturizers provide intense hydration, create protective barriers, and help restore compromised skin, making them ideal solutions for those struggling with severely dry, cracked, or irritated skin conditions.
Pros
- Highly effective in healing and protecting extremely dry and cracked skin.
- Multipurpose use for lips, face, hands, and body, serving as an all-in-one skin remedy.
- Creates a protective barrier that allows for oxygen flow to help enhance the healing process.
- Free of fragrances and preservatives, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- Clinically proven to restore smooth, healthy-looking skin.
- Available in a generous 14 oz jar that offers good value for money.
Cons
- The thick, greasy texture may not appeal to everyone and can leave a residue on the skin.
- Requires careful application to avoid staining clothes or bedding.
- Some users might find it too heavy during the daytime or in warmer climates.
- Not quickly absorbed, which might be inconvenient for those seeking a fast-absorbing product.
Pros
- Provides intense, long-lasting hydration suitable for extremely dry and cracked skin.
- Contains essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier.
- Non-comedogenic formula does not clog pores.
- Fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- Holds the NEA Seal of Acceptance, indicating its suitability for eczema or atopic dermatitis sufferers.
- Versatile in use, suitable for various skin areas, including face, hands, and feet.
Cons
- The thick, greasy texture may be uncomfortable for some users, especially during daytime use.
- May leave a shiny or oily residue on the skin, which can be undesirable for facial application.
- Requires reapplication for continuous effect, as it can wear off, particularly in harsh weather conditions.
- Some users might find the jar packaging less hygienic or convenient than tube packaging.
Pros
- Provides intense moisture and protection for extremely dry and sensitive skin.
- Helps restore the skin's natural barrier to prevent moisture loss.
- Free from fragrances and dyes, it is suitable for sensitive skin.
- Non-comedogenic does not clog pores.
- The rich, emollient formula that seals in moisture for effective healing.
Cons
- The thick consistency might feel too heavy for some users, especially in warmer climates.
- Can leave a greasy residue, requiring time to absorb into the skin fully.
- May not be suitable for use on the face for those who prefer a lighter moisturizer.
- Requires frequent reapplication to maintain moisture barrier, especially in dry conditions.
Pros
- Clinically proven to heal and protect extremely dry, chapped, and irritated skin.
- Contains a high concentration of petrolatum which acts as a skin protectant.
- Enriched with shea butter and vitamin E to hydrate and improve skin resilience.
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- Provides 48-hour hydration, maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier.
Cons
- May be too greasy for some users, especially in hot weather or on oily skin.
- Thick texture may require more effort to spread evenly on the skin.
- Not suitable for those who prefer a lighter, less visible skin care product.
- May need reapplication in extremely dry conditions for continued protection.
Pros
- Multi-purpose use, effective on the face, body, and hands.
- A rich, nourishing formula that rapidly soothes irritation.
- Contains Panthenol and Madecassoside, which promote skin barrier repair.
- Hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin, including infants.
- Fragrance-free and does not leave a greasy residue.
Cons
- Some users may find the texture too thick or heavy.
- Might not be suitable for those with oily skin due to its rich formula.
- Requires regular reapplication for optimal results in severe cases of skin dryness or irritation.
Pros
- Enriched with vitamins A and D to promote skin healing and rejuvenation.
- Provides a protective barrier to help prevent skin from drying out.
- Versatile use for treating minor wounds, burns, and chronic dryness.
- Suitable for sensitive skin, free from harsh chemicals.
- Non-greasy formula that absorbs quickly into the skin.
Cons
- The thick texture may not be preferred by all users, especially those with oily skin.
- Some users may find the ointment too heavy for use on the face.
- While fragrance-free, its natural scent may not be appealing to everyone.
- May require frequent reapplication in cases of severe skin dryness or exposure to extreme conditions.
Pros
- It contains natural ingredients like lanolin, Manuka honey, and vitamin E, known for their healing and moisturizing properties.
- Free from petroleum, parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances, and mineral oils, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
- Provides long-lasting moisture and is proven effective on the skin for over 48 hours.
- Versatile use across various dry areas, including hands, feet, lips, and face.
- Cruelty-free and dermatologist-tested, ensuring safety and efficacy.
Cons
- The thick texture may be too heavy for some users, particularly those with oily skin.
- The natural scent of the ingredients may not be appealing to all users.
- It can be too sticky or greasy for daytime use or under makeup.
- It may require frequent reapplication for chronic dryness or in extremely dry climates.
