Dry skin, also called xerosis, affects people physically and psychologically. Physical symptoms include rough skin, flaky skin and a feeling of tightness in the skin. Psychological effects of dry skin range from embarrassment about the appearance of the skin to severe depression related to skin disfigurement. Consult a dermatologist to find out how to better care for your dry, flaky skin.
Low Humidity
Low humidity levels reduce the amount of moisture in the air, making it easy for skin to get dry and itchy. The National Institutes of Health report that this happens most often in winter, when heated indoor air and cold outdoor air contain little moisture. Bathe less often and use mild soaps to avoid making dry skin worse.
Harsh Hygiene Products
Many hygiene products contain chemicals that give them their thick consistency and enticing smells. These chemicals can dry out the skin, making it itchy and flaky. Avoid dry skin by using mild cleansers or soaps, patting the skin dry instead of rubbing it, and using as little soap as possible during showers and baths.
Nummular Eczema
Nummular eczema, also referred to as nummular eczematous dermatitis, consists of coin-shaped patches that resemble psoriasis or ringworm. Often associated with dry skin, this condition has no cure. Since nummular eczema often worsens when exposed to harsh soaps, rough fabrics and fabric softener, reduce episodes of dryness and flaking by avoiding harsh products and bathing less often.
Ichthyosis Vulgaris
Ichthyosis vulgaris, also called fish scale disease, results in the accumulation of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. These cells create dry scales and flaky skin on the scalp. Other signs and symptoms of fish scale disease include tile-like scales, painful cracks in the soles of the feet and cracks in the skin of the palms. Cold, dry environments seem to make this condition worse, so avoid environments with low humidity.
Cancer Treatment
Drug therapies used to treat cancer also kill healthy cells. This means that cancer therapies have several side effects. Dry skin occurs when the skin cells at the bottom of the top layer of the skin do not have any moisture. Allergies, perfumed products and dehydration make dry skin worse. Chemocare.com recommends using moisturizers and ointments to replenish moisture and block the effects of harsh weather on the skin.
Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than it replaces. The body loses water through sweating and urination. Dehydration also occurs due to severe diarrhea and laxative abuse. When the body loses too much water, the skin dries out and loses its elasticity. If you participate in sports or other strenuous activities, drink enough water to replenish what you lose.
Allergies
Allergies cause more than just sneezing and watery eyes. Skin allergies also lead to dry, flaky skin that causes severe itching. An allergic reaction occurs when the skin comes into contact with an allergen. Possible allergens include laundry detergent, pet dander, perfume, lotion and household cleaning products. Avoid any product that causes dry skin, hives, itching, rash or other allergy symptoms.
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