Itchy skin, medically known as pruritis, is a disconcerting type of feeling that typically leads to scratching. Signs of itchy skin include skin redness, bumps, blisters and leather-like skin. Sometimes, itchy skin can be normal, or it may be a...
You see and touch keratin every day, but you probably don't give it much thought. This protein is the building block of your hair, fingernails and outer layer of skin. Because it's durable and non-porous, it's also a component in some nail...
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 skin is a protective layer that shields the body from harmful elements in the environment. Sometimes the skin can thicken or it can become thin. In some cases, thinning of the skin can begin at birth. Sometimes, an inherited disease can lead...
The integumentary system is the medical term for skin. Skin serves as a protective covering that supports the fluid and organs in your body. Sometimes, your skin cells grow at a rapid and abnormal rate. In some cases, your skin can appear...
Body dryness, or dry skin, is a common problem that usually can be treated with over-the-counter or home remedies. There are a number of dry skin causes, one being simple neglect. The skin needs to be looked after and cared for or else dry skin...
Inherited skin disorders are those that are passed down from generation to generation through familial genes. Some of these disorders cause symptoms that are limited to the skin, can be effectively managed and do not otherwise affect health;...
Dry skin, known medically as xerosis, is a skin condition that is experienced by most people at some point in their lives. Moderately dry skin results from dry or windy weather conditions, especially during winter months, and also from hormonal...
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...
Skin on the elbows can become dark because the skin in that area often is stretched and rubbed against fabrics. The friction, combined with dirt in the skin folds, dries out and darkens the skin. Conditions such as ichthyosis vulgaris, a genetic...
Evening primrose contains essential fatty acids, like omega-6 fatty acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), according to the National Institutes of Health; the gamma-linolenic acid is thought to be the active ingredient. Evening primrose has some...
Keratosis pilaris is a very common genetic follicular skin condition, thought to affect up to 50 percent of people to some extent. It is caused by the building up of keratin, a form of protein, in the hair follicles. Keratosis pilaris is most...
Often, your xerosis (dry skin) can be successfully treated at home simply by changing routines and hydrating your body more. Drink plenty of fluids (water is best) and use a humidifier, especially during winter months. Shorten your showers and...
Many people complain of dry, flaky skin in winter. Winter's dry cold air and low humidity can dry out even the oiliest of skin. Some people, however, are genetically predisposed to have scaly skin, a condition called ichthyosis; "ichthy" means...
Several medical conditions can cause dry, flaky skin, but it is just as often a normal part of aging or of living in a dry climate. The options for treatment of dry and flaky skin include lifestyle changes, home remedies, simple commercial...
Scaly skin, also know as ichthyosis vulgaris or fish scale disease, can be inherited or acquired as a result of an underlying medical condition. Underlying medical conditions associated with scaly skin include eczema, fungal skin, psoriasis,...
It's usual to recognize acne breakouts or the pimple-like bumps caused by ingrown hairs on your face and body, but it can be disconcerting to notice a breakout of bumps on the backs of your arms. If you've been avoiding sleeveless tops or feeling...
Dry, flaky skin can signal a number of health problems. You might just need to change a few personal hygiene habits that are drying your skin. You also might suffer from a chronic skin condition. Or, it could be a symptom of more serious internal...
It’s not unusual for skin on your lower legs to be dry and flaky. The degree of dryness comes down to factors such as your age, your lifestyle, or a medical condition, explains the Mayo Clinic. While dry skin tends to be more of a problem in...
Small, pimple-like bumps are usually the result of a benign skin condition known as keratosis pilaris. According to Medline Plus, keratosis pilaris causes small bumps that almost resemble goosebumps. Although keratosis pilaris can occur at any...
There are so many types of rashes, infections and other skin conditions that can cause bumps on the back of the arms that diagnosis requires examination by a doctor. Additionally, accompanying symptoms, or the lack thereof, must be considered....
While most dry skin is the result of lifestyle choices related to diet, cleansing routines and sun exposure, severely dry, cracked hands could indicate a more serious condition, warn doctors at the Mayo Clinic. Prior to seeking relief for the...
The skin is the body's largest organ, responsible for shielding your inner organs from harm. But what happens when the skin itself needs a better shield? Excessive moisture loss can cause your skin to shrivel, wrinkle, itch, flake and even bleed....
Dry and flaking skin can be a nuisance, but it is typically a mild and temporary problem, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, its severity can vary based on factors such as your age, health, location and the underlying cause, says the Mayo...
Small hard bumps on your skin may occur if you have a condition known as keratosis pilaris. Keratosis pilaris is a harmless condition that does not get worse and may disappear with age. Karatosis pilaris bumps may look like "goose bumps". The...
There are numerous skin conditions and age-related factors that could cause small, red bumps on your arms; therefore, you should consult a physician or dermatologist to rule out any serious diseases, drug reactions or allergies. One common genetic...
Dry, peeling skin, known medically as icthyosis, may result from cold weather and removal of natural oils with frequent bathing. Dry skin can be inherited, a symptom of disease or a result of microorganisms present on the skin. Treatment depends...
Insects may bite exposed skin like the lower part of your arm. These bites often produce bumps that result from localized swelling. Genetic skin conditions like keratosis pilaris can also produce bumps on the skin of your lower arm that feel like...
Dry skin can occur anywhere on your body, but the area on your elbows is among the most common trouble zones. Although generally not serious, dry skin can be unattractive and uncomfortable. Most cases of elbow dry skin can be easily treated and...
