Dry skin occurs when lipids, the fatty substances that keep moisture on the surface of the skin, are removed or dried out. Although the condition is usually temporary and not a serious issue, it can be very uncomfortable. According to the Mayo Clinic, dry skin is most common on the arms and lower legs. However, dry skin can be common on hands and feet as well, providing discomfort and unsightly symptoms.
Causes
Dry skin is often caused by the environment, typically cold weather accompanied by low humidity. Indoor heating and cooling systems can also affect the skin on hands and feet by making the air dry. Long, hot and frequent showers or baths can dry out skin as well. Harsh soaps and that contain chemicals such as antibacterial ingredients and spending too much time in the sun can pull moisture from the skin. While any lotion may appear to provide moisture, some actually contain chemicals that dry out the skin.
Symptoms
Signs of dry skin on the hands and feet include itching, flaking, scaling, peeling, cracks, redness or bleeding. The skin may also feel tight, especially after showering or swimming. The skin might also feel tight and look or feel rough. Specific symptoms can depend on age, health, geographical location and the cause of the dryness.
Warnings
If left untreated, dry skin on the hands and feet can lead to more serious skin conditions such as eczema, a condition that causes redness, cracking and inflammation, folloculitis, the inflammation of the hair follicles, and cellulitis, a bacterial infection of the skin's tissues that can enter into the blood vessels. A dermatologist may be able to help if dry skin does not improve or is accompanied by infections from scratching, large areas that are peeling or discomfort that interferes with sleep.
Treatment
Dry skin is only temporary, but there are things that can be done to provide relief. Moisturizers that are applied while skin is still damp will help to keep moisture on hands and feet. For severe dry skin, a dermatologist may recommend a special cream or ointment. After hand or feet washing, the skin should be patted instead of rubbed dry. Sunscreen applied to the hands can help reduce drying sun exposure, and applying moisturizer shortly before putting on gloves or socks can repair dry skin on the hands and feet.
Prevention
Dry skin on the hands and feet can be prevented by taking showers or baths that are warm, not hot, and limiting them to 15 minutes or less. Harsh soaps should be avoided and replaced with soap that has an added moisturizer. The use of a humidifier can add moisture to a home that central heating or cooling removes, and consuming a lot of water can help keep all organs hydrated, including the skin.
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