| Dry
skin (xerosis or xeroderma) is a very common condition especially during the winter
months when the humidity is low. It appears most often on the lower legs, arms,
the sides of the abdomen (flanks) and thighs. Dry skin can be exacerbated by bathing
or showering too frequently, especially if using harsh soaps.
Common causes of dry skin are dehydration, Vitamin A deficiency, and diabetes.
Also, as people age the skin tends to become drier. Dry skin may also crack, creating
a route of entry for an infection. Ichthyosis
is a rare, chronic skin disorder that causes the formation of dry, fish-like scales
on the skin. It can be genetically inherited and can be treated but not cured.
Those experiencing ichthyosis have lifelong symptoms, finding relief through daily
care and moisturizing of the skin. Symptoms
associated with dry skin are cracks in the skin, scaling (the visible peeling
of the outer skin layer) and itching. Some dry skin symptoms may be alleviated
with over the counter topical ointments or products. Those experiencing chronic
or severe dry skin problems should seek their doctor's or dermatologist's advice.
See also acne, eczema, psoriasis,
dermatitis. Download as PDF. |
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