Having an abundance of melanin is amazing but without the proper care, our skin has a tendency to get really dry no matter what time of year it is.

It's super tempting to go all out at CVS and Target and splurge on glowy lotions and rosy body butters to get our shine on fleek and at its full potential. But what are we really putting on, and into, our bodies in an effort for them to maintain their already natural moisture? It's certainly something to think about.

As we go deeper into a plant-based culture that promotes a jumpstart into health and wellness, it's no secret that there are also all-natural options to help quench our skin's thirst. Because the thirst is certainly real. We just don't have to put a ton of processed products on our bodies to satisfy it. Before your next trip to your local store, take a look at all-natural ways to quench dry skin.

1. Oatmeal

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Oatmeal isn't just a good source of fiber at the beginning of your day. It's also a great source for moisture. An oatmeal bath helps treat dry skin in a natural way, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. If you really want to go ham, include powdered oatmeal or creams that include oatmeal as an ingredient. Oatmeal baths are also a known remedy for eczema, especially when it comes to your little ones.

We Recommend: AVEENO Active Naturals Soothing Bath Treatment Packets

2. Milk

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Milk does your body and your skin lots of good. When it comes to your skin's cry for moisture, milk could be a go-to solution. But you don't have to go rubbing milk on your arms and legs, sis. The move is to include milk in your diet and simply drink it. This all works because milk has a fat called phospholipid, which can boost the skin's barrier, making it a relief from dry skin.

3. Mango Butter

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One of the best fruits for your stomach can also be one of the best for your skin. The antioxidants in mango butter include moisturizers and absorb smoothly into the skin to prevent your glow from getting greasy. The best part is, this is a natural moisturizer you can use every day or even every other day. Applying mango butter on your skin and massaging it is a win for you all day long.

We Recommend: Sky Organics 100% Organic Unrefined Mango Butter, $17

4. Aloe Vera

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Considering many store-bought lotions contain aloe vera these days, it only makes sense that it's a natural source of moisture for dry skin. Even if you're experiencing extra dry and itchy skin, if you apply aloe vera over the area and enclose it with a sock, you could experience its power overnight. Of course, it can also be used as a daily preventative measure to keep your skin from getting to said dry and itchy state.

5. Cucumbers


Thanks to the magnesium, potassium, and vitamins found in cucumbers, they are amazing for your skin, nails and even our bones. And if you're looking for a natural way to stay looking youthful, this could be it. Plus, it gives your glow a little pop and reduces puffiness, which we can all use every once in a while. We all know that cucumbers can be placed over your eyes but consider a cucumber puree for the rest of your body, or toss in some honey for a nice face mask.

6. Avocados


There's a reason avocado masks are so popular, but have you thought about what it can do for your entire body? The fats included in avocados, as well as vitamins like E, A, and D, make sure the skin doesn't only keep its moisture but stays looking young. The best way to benefit from it is to eat a ripe avocado before rubbing the inner peel around your body. It will leave a little residue behind, so let that hang out for 15 minutes before rinsing.

7. Honey

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Honey has healing powers for your skin… honey. From moisturizing to serving as an anti-inflammatory, we all know that honey is a multi-purpose ingredient. So it's no surprise that it's a remedy for many when it comes to quenching your skin's thirst. You don't have to have an intimate and sexy moment to rub it on your skin. You can use it as a lotion substitute to retain your skin's moisture as you go about your day.

We Recommend: Wedderspoon Raw Premium Manuka Honey, $30

8. Shea Butter

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We've been getting shea butter by the pounds. Almost everyone knows that some of the best lotions and moisturizers for our skin include shea butter. So why not get the all-natural version and cut out all of the unnecessary ingredients? Shea butter isn't just a moisturizer. It can also act as an anti-aging product. But since it's created from the nuts from the fruit of a Shea tree, it's likely to be much healthier for your skin compared to other options you typically see on the shelves. A tip is to make sure that it's not expired before using it. Once the expiration date comes, it no longer has its moisturizing properties.

We Recommend: Unrefined Ivory Shea Butter, $14

9. Sunflower Seed Oil

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We've heard all the good things about olive oil, coconut oil, and even avocado oil. But apparently, oil from sunflower seeds attacks hydration in the skin like none other. In reality, olive oil actually causes issues to the skin's barrier, so sunflower seed oil is definitely a better option. The plus side is that sunflower seed oil is full of vitamin E, antioxidants, and other nutrients that can help prevent acne, irritation, and inflammation. It also contains emollient ingredients, which guarantees your skin will keep its moisture, so there's no worries about having to reapply.

Featured image by Getty Images