Dry Skin On Legs: The Best Treatment Options

Dry, itchy skin on legs can be painful. Not only is it irritating, dry skin on the legs specifically can make wearing certain items of clothing – such as pants and tights – uncomfortable. Dry skin is a common problem and can be caused by anything from environmental factors to underlying skin conditions.

Figuring out ways to prevent dry skin can feel impossible – especially if your skin is very sensitive. However, you have plenty of options when it comes to addressing dry skin on legs. 

dry skin on legs

From avoiding irritants to choosing moisturizers carefully, you can eventually find relief with a little effort. Everyone’s skin is different, so it may take some trial and error to find the right course of action for you. It will be well worth the effort when you’re left with smoother, healthier skin.

Identify And Avoid Potential Irritants

You may be making your dry skin worse without even realizing it. If you use body wash or lotions containing fragrances and harsh soaps, this can cause skin irritation. Try switching to a more natural product and see if conditions improve. In the future, avoid any products that caused a negative skin reaction.  

In general, plant-based oils and products with antioxidant properties are preferable to products with lots of artificial ingredients. However, even natural products can be harmful if you have underlying allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients. Essential oils are especially notorious for causing adverse reactions like redness and skin rashes, so use any new products with discretion and cease use if you notice irritation.

Irritants do not just come from skincare products. Anything that comes into regular contact with your skin can cause irritation, from your laundry detergent to certain fabrics. Be vigilant about tracking when your skin feels dry and itchy to see if you can identify a common denominator.

Does dry skin on legs get worse after laundry? Try a more natural detergent. Does your skin get particularly irritated after shaving? Check your shaving cream’s label for potential irritants.

Medical conditions can sometimes cause dry skin on legs. If removing irritants does not correct issues like dryness, itching, redness, and scaling, make an appointment with a dermatologist. Conditions like psoriasis and eczema may require medical treatment.

Incorporate Lifestyle Changes

Day-to-day activities can exacerbate dry skin on legs. Making small changes can help with your overall skin health.

Change Your Hygiene Routine

Avoid long, hot showers and baths. These can be particularly hard on your legs as hot water depletes skin of its natural oils.

If you shave your legs, apply a shaving foam or gel first. Shave with the natural angle of your hair, not against it.

dry skin on legs


Rinse your blade continually as you shave. When you are done shaving, rinse off with lukewarm water and apply moisturizer.

Evaluate Your Environment

Be aware of the temperature in your home. If you use central heat or a furnace, hot air can dry out your skin, especially if you find yourself cranking the heat in the winter months. Consider investing in a humidifier, which won’t just help with dry skin on legs. It will help with your skin health overall.

Eating and Drinking Habits

Drinking more water can help your skin overall as it keeps your skin hydrated from within. 

Your diet can also impact dry skin. Try eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and chia and flax seeds. Fruits rich in vitamin C – like oranges, pineapples, and peppers – can also have a positive effect on skin.

Oil-Based Treatments Work Best For Dry Skin On Legs

Creams and lotions are common for treating dry skin on legs, but they are actually not the best option. Not only do such products often leave veils of grease behind, they only hydrate on the surface. They also rub off easily, further diminishing their effectiveness.

Oil-based products work much better on the legs. The skin absorbs oil quickly, allowing for a deeper level of hydration and leaving the skin moisturized longer.

We recommend Delfina Dry Skin Oil. Developed by a physician, Delfina is designed to penetrate the upper layers of skin and stimulate hydration from within.

Delfina is also easy to use. Simply spray Delfina Dry Skin Oil on your legs and your skin will fully absorb the oil in just a few minutes.

Unlike other products, Delfina has not been found to cause side effects or allergic reactions. In addition to treating dry skin in general, Delfina can treat skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and cracked heels.

You can read more about how Delfina works here and see before and after pictures here of patients who’ve found success with Defina.

Dry Skin On Legs: The Bottom Line

Dry skin on legs can be irritating, but is usually not serious. Being aware of potential irritants, making small lifestyle changes, and regular use of Delfina Dry Skin Oil can all help treat the issue. It may take some trial and error to find the right treatment combination, but it will be worth it for smoother, healthier legs.

We understand how difficult finding dry skin relief is, and we are always here to help. If you have any questions about dry skin or Delfina Dry Skin Oil in general, don’t hesitate to reach out with questions.