Top tips for good skin health

If you suffer from itchy or dry skin, the latest Veterans MATES topic may be just what you’re looking for to help you manage your skin health.

As we get older, a common issue we can experience is dry or itchy skin. A condition that can make us feel uncomfortable for many reasons. The good news is, there are many ways to treat dry and itchy skin. These tips might help you:  

  • Moisturising regularly is one of the best treatments for dry or itchy skin, which can be applied morning and night for maximum benefit. As older skin can be thinner, moisturising also helps prevent skin tears. Some skin lotions, such as Alpha Keri Lotion and QV skin lotion are available to DVA gold card and some white and orange card holders through the Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS).
  • Use warm, rather than hot water when you shower and/or bath and keeping bathing times as short as possible.
  • Using a soap substitute cleanser when bathing can assist, as traditional soaps can dry out and damage your skin. Your GP can advise if you’re eligible for a soap substitute cleanser prescription.
  • Be mindful of possible triggers that can dry out skin such as soaps, perfumes, cosmetics, detergents, certain clothing, stress and infection.
  • Take reasonable steps to prevent skin tears. These can occur in many different ways. However, if you do get a skin tear see your GP for treatment and advice on how to look after it.
  • See a GP if your skin becomes inflamed. They can provide advice on treatment, including the use of a corticosteroid cream.
  • Protect you skin from the sun, wear sun protective clothing and apply SPF50 sunscreen and maintain adequate hydration and regular exercise. Talk to your GP about having annual skin checks.

You should always consult with your doctor to ensure you are facilitating the correct treatments and to ensure you have no underlying conditions.

For more details on this important topic, or other veteran specific health issues, head over to their new look website https://www.veteransmates.net.au/

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