What is Dry Skin?
Dry skin, also called xerosis, is a skin condition in which patients experience a texture of skin roughness that is sometimes scaley. Often xerosis is itchy.
Who Gets Dry Skin?
Patients of all ages, skin types, race, and gender can experience dry skin in their lifetime. People at higher risk for xerosis include: low humidity, certain medical conditions, use of harsh soaps, and medications. Xerosis has a higher incidence as people age. Most people age 60 or above have dry skin.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Dry Skin?
Xerosis is characterized by rough, dry, or dull appearing skin. If skin is scaly, the scales usually flake off easy. Xerosis is most commonly affected on the lower extremities (shins), upper body, especially the tops/back of hands.
How Do you Manage Dry Skin?
Use mild cleaners and generous application of rich moisturizing creams or ointments. Bath or shower with Luke warm waters and apply moisturizer to damp skin. Hot water can create worsening of dry skin and also worsen associated itch. If an underlying condition is the cause of the dry skin, it is important to get that treated first in addition to following gentle skin care practices.