Dry Skin Symptoms

Introduction

Dry skin (xeroderma) is a condition characterised by cracking, flakiness, and itching. While it is normal to experience dry skin from time to time, dry skin may develop due to several factors. You can follow simple home remedies and medications to manage mild to moderately dry skin. If home remedies fail to provide relief, consult a doctor for further treatment. 

Types

The types of dry skin are:

• Contact dermatitis – This is a skin condition that develops when your skin comes in direct contact with an allergen. 

• Seborrheic dermatitis – This is a common skin condition characterised by an itchy scalp and oily and red patches.

• Atopic dermatitis – It is commonly known as eczema. It is a chronic skin disease characterised by cracked and scaly patches on your skin. 

Symptoms

The symptoms of dry skin are:

• Flaky and cracked skin
• Peeling skin
• Rough texture
• Itchiness
• Burning sensation
• Skin infection
• Reddish, brownish, or dark skin
• Skin tightness
• Rough skin
• Stinging sensation

Causes

The following factors may cause dry skin. 

• Age
• Use of products with harsh chemicals
• Cold and dry weather
• Undergoing medical treatments
• Medical conditions like eczema, diabetes, or psoriasis
• Too much scrubbing and bathing
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Dysfunctional skin barrier

When To See A Doctor

In most cases, positive changes in lifestyle and home remedies can help treat dry skin. However, consult a dermatologist at Yashoda Hospitals if:

• If home remedies fail to provide relief
• Painful or inflamed skin
• Infection or open sores
• Disrupts sleep and daily activities
• Large areas of peeling, scaly, or cracked skin

Remedies/ Treatment

You can follow the simple tips given below to manage dry skin at home.

• Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to wash your face twice a day
• Apply a hydrating moisturiser several times daily
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid products with harsh chemicals
• Avoid scrubbing or itching dry skin patches
• Limit showers to once a day for 10 minutes
• Wear clothes made of cotton
• Avoid using hot water for bathing

If dry skin is the sign of an underlying medical condition, They may prescribe topical creams, ointments, or lotions with hydrocortisone to treat dry skin.

Conclusion

Dry skin is a condition that is characterised by flakiness, itchiness, or cracks on the skin. While you can develop dry skin due to cold and dry weather, it may also develop due to nutritional deficiencies, medical treatments, or medical conditions. You can follow a proper skincare routine and home remedies to manage mild to moderately dry skin. If home remedies fail to provide relief or the skin becomes infected, consult your doctor. They may prescribe topical ointments or medications depending on the cause and severity of the condition.