Dry Skin, Xerosis Treatment, Anne Arundel Dermatology

Dry Skin

Dry skin is a common condition that can occur for a variety of reasons. You can typically manage typical dry skin at home, but excessively dry skin may point towards another issue that requires help from a dermatologist.

What Causes Dry Skin, and How Can You Avoid It?

Your skin requires adequate moisture and will become dry, itchy, and flaky in response to a lack of moisture. Winter weather is a common cause of dry skin because cold air has less humidity both indoors and outdoors. Humidity is a necessary component of healthy levels of moisture. Certain medical conditions, using body soap and laundry detergent with harsh chemicals, and simple aging also contribute to dry skin. Here are several tips to help you avoid it:

Run a humidifier in your home during the winter. Setting your humidifier at a level of 60 percent should be adequate to replenish your skin’s top layer, known as the epidermis.
Do not take showers or baths more than once a day and limit your time in the water to under 10 minutes. Be sure to apply moisturizer to your skin immediately after toweling yourself dry.
Blot your skin as you dry off instead of rubbing it to maintain moisture.
Use moisturizer instead of soap and avoid any perfumed personal care product that depletes your body of natural oils.
Make sure your laundry soap is fragrance-free and avoid using fabric softeners.
Instead of scratching your dry skin, apply moisturizer or a cold compress to relieve discomfort.
void using sponges, washcloths, and scrub brushes in the bath or shower.
Avoid wearing wool-based clothing and coats to prevent skin irritation.

If you find that your dry skin persists even after trying these tips, please do not hesitate to reach out to Anne Arundel Dermatology for additional treatment options.

Signs of Excessively Dry Skin or an Infection

Itchy, flaky skin is normal when it retains too little moisture. If the symptoms persist, they may eventually cause cracked, rough skin that becomes painful. The cracks may become deep enough to cause bleeding. The skin can sting or burn as well. You should consider each of these symptoms an indication that you need something stronger than home remedies to treat your dry skin. Other serious skin problems to watch for include:

Peeling skin: People usually do not notice their skin shedding its top layer and a new layer growing in its place. When skin sheds too many skin cells because it is not receiving enough moisture, it can start to peel off in noticeable sheets. Peeling skin is most common on the hands.
Skin infections: When the epidermis has a break in its outer layer, germs can penetrate and cause an infection. Typical signs of an infection include leaking fluid, pus-filled sacs, swelling, discoloration, and a thick yellow crust.

Dry skin is usually not a serious concern, but it can make your life uncomfortable when it reaches the advanced stages. Please contact Anne Arundel Dermatology to learn more about how we can treat your dry skin.

Dry skin: Signs and symptoms (aad.org) | 9 ways to banish dry skin – Harvard Health

Signs of Excessively Dry Skin or an Infection

Peeling skin: People usually do not notice their skin shedding its top layer and a new layer growing in its place. When skin sheds too many skin cells because it is not receiving enough moisture, it can start to peel off in noticeable sheets. Peeling skin is most common on the hands.
Skin infections: When the epidermis has a break in its outer layer, germs can penetrate and cause an infection. Typical signs of an infection include leaking fluid, pus-filled sacs, swelling, discoloration, and a thick yellow crust.

Dry skin: Signs and symptoms (aad.org) | 9 ways to banish dry skin – Harvard Health

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Tackle Your Dry Skin

Although dry skin can be remedied, it might impact day-to-day activities, leading to irritation and discomfort. Fortunately, there are ways you can reduce the effects of the harsh winter on your skin. Below are some simple tips you can implement to help keep your skin smooth and hydrated this winter.

Tackle Your Dry Skin

Click through to learn more about any area of care. If you have concerns, please give us a call to make an appointment to see your dermatologist.

Acne

Alopecia Areata

Birthmarks

Dry Skin

Eczema

Ingrown Toenails

Lichen Planopilaris

Moles

Psoriasis

Scars

Warts

White Spots / Nail Fungus

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