Dermatology is the branch of medicine that deals with skin conditions. Some common complaints include dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea and acne.
Dry skin is also a common problem. Dermatologists often call dry skin ‘xerosis’ or ‘asteatosis’. It can become more troublesome because as the skin loses moisture it cracks and becomes itchy.
The dry areas may result in Dermatitis, ie. the skin becomes red and itchy. This may result in a ‘crazy-paving’ appearance on the lower legs (eczema craquelé), or round patches scattered over the trunk and limbs (a dry form of nummular Dermatitis). Sometimes the dry skin is just itchy, without much of a rash (sometimes known as ‘winter itch’, ‘7th age itch’, or senile pruritus).
Causes of dry skin
Factors that contribute to dry skin include
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Inherited factors.
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Metabolic factors (dry skin is more common in those with an under active thyroid, or with excessive weight loss).
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Increasing age (resulting in decreased natural lubrication).
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Cool weather with low humidity.
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Air conditioning, central heating or being close to a fire or fan heater.
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Excessive bathing, showering or swimming (especially in strongly chlorinated water).
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Contact with soap, detergents and solvents.
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Frictional irritation and chapping.
Managing dry skin
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Reduce excessive bathing. Use lukewarm water. Showers are better than baths.
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Replace standard soap with a substitute such as a synthetic detergent, water-miscible emollient, bath oil or anti-pruritic tar oil.
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Apply an emollient liberally and often, particularly after bathing, and when itchy.
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Treat the eczematous patches with a topical steroid for a 5-15 day course. A doctor will need to prescribe this.
Treating dry skin
Dry skin is usually a long-term problem that recurs often, especially in winter. When you notice your skin getting dry, resume your lubricating routine and carefully avoid the use of soap. If the itchy dry-skin rash returns, seek your dermatologist or doctor's advice. An important aspect of treatment is to identify and tackle any contributing factors.
You can make an appointment to talk to a Dermatologist about your skin concerns by clicking the Book an Appointment button.
