Skin rashes are among the most diverse of medical conditions, occurring in different locations with variable appearances and an array of associated symptoms. Dry skin rashes often indicate a problem with loss of skin moisture or an abnormality in the process of skin renewal and sloughing. Systemic diseases, genetic disorders, immune system reactions and contact with skin irritants commonly lead to different kinds of dry skin rashes.
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a form of eczema caused by direct contact with an allergy-provoking substance or chemical irritant. The skin in the contact area typically appears dry, red and flaky. Crusts, scales, bumps and blisters may develop. The skin areas exposed to the allergen or irritant characteristically itch. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that common causes of contact dermatitis include nickel, chromate, fragrances, rubber, concrete, glues, dyes, solvents, paint, fire retardants, certain fabrics, fiberglass, cleaners, detergents and poison ivy, sumac and oak. Treatment focuses on eliminating contact with the substance causing the skin eruption and moisturizing the skin. Topical steroid lotions, creams or ointments often help resolve the local skin reaction.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition caused by an autoimmune reaction that leads to localized overproduction of skin cells. The rapid production of skin cells leads to the formation of raised red patches of skin covered with a thick, dry scale. These areas, called plaques, most commonly occur on the scalp, knees, elbows and lower back. Doctors use topical and oral medications and ultraviolet light treatments to help control psoriasis. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases reports that approximately 5 million adults in the United States have psoriasis.
Ichthyosis Vulgaris
Ichthyosis vulgaris is an inherited skin disorder that disrupts the normal cycle of skin cell replacement. The skin consists of multiple layers. New skin cells arise from the deepest layer and slowly work their way to the surface, replacing old skin cells that slough off. With ichthyosis vulgaris, the old cells fail to separate from the skin surface. The retained cells form thick, dry scales. The disease most commonly presents at or shortly after birth and persists throughout life. The involved skin typically itches and may give off an unpleasant odor caused by bacteria. Treatment includes topical medications to promote sloughing of old skin cells and moisturizers to help prevent new scale formation. Topical or systemic retinoid medications may also help control scaling. The medical information website InteliHealth reports that one in every 250 people has ichthyosis vulgaris.
Acquired Ichthyosis
Acquired ichthyosis is a skin condition that closely resembles ichthyosis vulgaris but arises in association with certain systemic diseases rather than because of a genetic abnormality, reports Penn State College of Medicine's Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Possible causes of acquired ichythyosis include underactive thyroid disease, multiple myeloma, lymphoma, AIDS and leprosy. Doctors treat acquired ichthyosis with the same medications used for the genetic condition.
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