What Is Dry Skin?

Dry skin is a common condition that occurs when the skin lacks adequate moisture, leading to itchiness, flakiness, and discomfort. While mild dry skin can typically be managed at home, excessively dry or cracked skin may indicate an underlying issue requiring attention from a dermatologist.

CAUSES

Dry skin can result from a variety of factors, including:

  • Environmental conditions: Cold, low-humidity weather in the winter is a frequent cause.
  • Harsh chemicals: Body soaps, detergents, and personal care products containing harsh or perfumed ingredients can strip natural oils from the skin.
  • Aging: As the skin ages, its ability to retain moisture decreases.
  • Medical conditions: Certain health issues can contribute to excessively dry skin.

SYMPTOMS

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.

Treatment

Dry skin can often be managed with the following home remedies:

  • Use a humidifier set at 60% during the winter to replenish moisture levels in your skin.
  • Limit showers or baths to once a day for less than 10 minutes, and blot the skin dry instead of rubbing.
  • Apply moisturizer immediately after toweling off to lock in hydration.
  • Avoid fragranced or harsh personal and laundry care products.
  • Use cold compresses or moisturizer instead of scratching to relieve discomfort.
  • Avoid sponges, washcloths, scrub brushes, and wool-based clothing to minimize irritation.

 

If dry skin persists despite these measures or if symptoms progress to peeling or signs of infection, it’s time to seek professional help. Contact Anne Arundel Dermatology to learn more about effective treatments for severe or persistent dry skin.

dry skin on elbow
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