You're probably itchy and annoyed if your skin is extremely dry and flaky. While dry skin usually is just a nuisance, it may indicate a more serious underlying problem that warrants a trip to your doctor's office. You can treat most types of dry skin and take steps to help prevent the condition from recurring.
Identification
Your skin, which weighs about 8 lbs., is your largest organ. It consists of three layers that waterproof, insulate and guard your body against extreme temperatures, damaging sunlight and harsh chemicals. Your innermost layer of skin, or subcutis, acts as a cushion for your insides. The middle layer, or dermis, gives your skin its strength and elasticity. Your outer layer of skin, the epidermis, mostly consists of protein.
Dry Skin
Itching and flaking represent just two indications of dry skin. It also can result in lines, cracks and sometimes deep fissures that may bleed. Dry skin may feel tight, often after you shower or bath. As your skin dries out, your usually plump cells shrivel, which create fine lines and wrinkles. Your skin also may appear shrunken, dehydrated, rough or red.
Types
Numerous factors cause dry skin. If your body doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, it reduces sweat production and oil gland activity -- this results in dry skin. Skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, also may cause extremely dry, flaky skin. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that causes your immune system to speed up the growth of skin cells. It can affect any part of your body and results in raised red patches with flakes or scales of dead skin. Eczema also may occur on any area of your body. This condition makes your skin itchy, dry, rough, flaky, uncomfortable and sometimes painful.
Treatments
Psoriasis and eczema typically require strong creams and lotions. Topical treatments, such as corticosteroids, can help reduce inflammation. Treatments to help remove scales, relieve itching, moisturize and soothe irritated skin may contain such substances as salicylic acid, coal tar, aloe vera, zinc, jojoba oil and capsaicin. Treatments for eczema also include topical steroids. Other eczema treatments include anesthetics, antibiotics and antihistamines, as well as antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory creams, gels, ointments and lotions. If you suffer from severe psoriasis or eczema, you may need prescription medications.
Considerations
Environmental factors also may result in extremely dry skin. Overexposure to the sun can damage your skin by breaking down collagen and elasticity -- this leads to wrinkles and dry, flaky skin. Your skin usually is driest during winter months when the humidity is low. Air conditioning, central heating and frequent hot showers or baths also may dry your skin.
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