I have the dryest skin!!! I know I need to drink more water, but until then another thing that really helps is to take a loofah or a thistle brush.
Actually, this one is made from palm fibers:
Earth Therapuetics Purest Palm Body Brush, $7.20, at amazon.com
Use it on dry skin before you get in the shower. I brush upwards and it hurts. Then I shower. While I'm still wet I put on almond oil -- Aura Cacia Sweet Almond. Don't rub it off with your towel, just pat your skin or let it dry naturally.
Aura Cacia Sweet Almond Natural Skin Care Oil, $13.65, at AuraCacia.com
If you’re crazy dry, then put on another cream or oil. I happen to be a coconut nut, so I use Pure Fiji coconut milk and honey.
Pure Fiji Coconut Milk and Honey Nourishing Exotic Oil, $24 at purefiji.com