Dry skin relief lotion is always in demand. For some reason, severe dry skin seems to be a bigger problem than ever.

Luckily, the research behind dry skin lotion seems to be improving, too. An ideal dry skin lotion does one more thing besides protecting your skin, allowing the skin to hydrate itself from within. The lotion should treat the underlying cause of dry skin, as well. A modern blend of vitamins, plant oils and natural enzymes can provide relief for even severely dried and cracked skin.

Look for all-natural ingredients, organic if possible. Here are some to look for on the label.

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant often used in dry skin relief lotion. It helps to reduce signs of aging -- fine lines and wrinkles. Another important natural antioxidant is coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10. Many products contain CoQ10; the most effective use the naturally derived nano-lipid form, which can penetrate the surface of skin for greater effectiveness.

Avocado and macadamia oils, both from plant sources, work to hydrate skin naturally. Keratin, a basic protein building block of skin, is used in dry skin lotion to promote collagen regeneration. Together, these natural ingredients help to replenish skin moisture while stimulating the growth of new skin cells.

Lots of products claim to be "all natural," but check the list of ingredients.

Synthetic fragrances and parabens, both extremely common, can damage the skin they're supposed to protect. The best lotions are free of fragrances and parabens, leaving only truly natural ingredients on your skin.

By the way, lotion can affect more than just your skin: some of the ingredients may be absorbed through the skin into your bloodstream. For this reason, it is crucial that any product you use contain only safe, natural ingredients.

Take a minute to read the label on a dry skin relief product. For extra reassurance, check to see if a full money-back guarantee is included. You want a dry skin lotion that works for you, not some imaginary Average Person.

To sum it all up: dry skin can be uncomfortable, even painful. It can be so stubborn, you may think nothing works. But effective dry skin relief is available! Look for true organic products, with the ingredients listed here. You can feel better and healthier and your skin can look great, too.

Kathryn Lane is a health and nutrition researcher. The most valuable and effective products she finds are rarely the most expensive or the most-advertised, she reports on her website: http://www.health-and-skin-site.com/