Dry Skin? Here's What Might Be Causing It

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Anusha Nagral Reddy

Dry skin, or xerosis cutis, lacks moisture in the outer skin layer, leading to itching, flaking, and rough patches. Commonly appearing on arms, legs, and other exposed areas, dry skin is often caused by environmental stressors. Diagnosis typically involves dermatological evaluation, and treatment includes moisturizers and lifestyle changes. The medical term is xeroderma.

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What is Dry Skin?

Dry or dehydrated skin may show signs like scales or small cracks. Factors such as low humidity, frequent hand washing, harsh soaps, and medical conditions like eczema can cause or worsen it. In many cases, systemic conditions like climate, genetics, or illness may be involved.

Commonly Affected Areas

Hands and Fingers: Frequent washing and cold exposure make these prone to dryness.
Elbows and Knees: Have fewer oil glands, leading to rough, cracked skin.
Face: Especially cheeks, forehead, and eye area affected by sun or harsh products.
Legs: Become dry and flaky in low humidity, especially in winter.
Feet: Heels and soles dry out due to shoes or cold weather.
Scalp: Dry scalp leads to dandruff and itchiness.
Arms: Outer arms may have dry patches and mild rashes due to low moisture.

Dry Skin Types

Contact Dermatitis: Caused by skin reacting to substances like bleach or nickel.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Reaction to chemical exposure.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Triggered by allergens such as nickel or fragrance.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: Oily, red, scaly rash, common on scalp, especially in infants.
Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Chronic condition with dry, scaly patches, often in children.
Other causes: Psoriasis, type 2 diabetes, and other health conditions.

Causes of Dry Skin

Aging: Reduced natural oil production with age.
Climate: Dry or desert climates with low humidity.
Genetics: Inherited conditions like eczema.
Health Conditions: Diabetes, kidney disease, and hypothyroidism.
Occupational Exposure: Healthcare workers, hairdressers, and others frequently washing hands.
Medications: Certain prescriptions can cause dryness.
Hot Showers: Strip the skin of natural oils.
Harsh Soaps: Contain chemicals that irritate and dry the skin.

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Symptoms of Dry Skin

Itchiness
Peeling or flaking
Inflammation or redness
Sensation of tightness
Cracks or splits (in severe cases)
Fine lines or crevices
Dull skin appearance, especially in darker skin tones

When to See a Doctor for Dry Skin

Your skin stays dry even after using moisturizers regularly
You notice redness, irritation, or painful cracks
Itching is so bad it keeps you up at night or affects your day
You see open sores, bleeding, or think there might be an infection
The dryness is all over or comes with a stubborn rash

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Risk Factors

Age (older adults)
Cold, dry weather
Frequent hot showers or baths
Use of harsh cleaning agents or soaps
Not drinking enough water
Medical conditions like eczema or diabetes
Chlorinated swimming
Prolonged sun exposure
Family history of dry skin

How Dry Skin is Diagnosed

Observation of physical symptoms (scaling, tightness, flaking)
Allergy testing for irritants or allergens
Blood tests to detect diabetes, kidney disease, or thyroid issues
Skin biopsy for eczema or other underlying conditions

Treatment Options for Dry Skin

Treatment typically involves moisturizers and eliminating irritants:

Moisturizers

Cetaphil Lotion
Lubriderm Lotion
Curel Lotion
Vaseline or Aquaphor for severe dryness

Sunscreens: SPF 30+ with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid

Prescription Treatments

Hydrocortisone 1%
Pramosone 2.5%
Triamcinolone 0.1%
Fluocinonide 0.05%

Antihistamines (for itch relief)

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Hydroxyzine (Atarax)
Cetirizine (Zyrtec)

Tips for Managing Dry Skin

Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing
Wear gloves and protective clothing in cold weather
Eat a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A & E
Use a humidifier indoors to combat dry air

Prevention of Dry Skin

Moisturize daily, especially after showers
Use fragrance-free, gentle cleansers
Limit hot showers and baths
Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day
Use a humidifier in winter or dry climates

Home Remedies for Dry Skin

Natural Oils: Coconut, olive, or almond oil for locking in moisture
Aloe Vera Gel: Calms irritation and hydrates
Honey: Apply as a mask for 10-15 minutes
Oatmeal Baths: Reduce itching and soothe skin
Coconut Oil: Strengthens the skin's moisture barrier
Avocado Mask: Rich in nutrients for skin nourishment
Drink Water: Keeps skin hydrated internally
Use Lukewarm Water: Avoid hot water to protect skin oils
Gentle Soaps: Fragrance-free and moisturizing formulas

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Frequently Asked Questions

We tend to think that drinking lots of water can cure dry skin, but the truth is, it's not effective. A person who is normally hydrated is unlikely to see a difference in their skin after drinking an increased volume of water.

Dehydrated skin lacks water where dry skin lacks sebum. Additionally, dry skin is a type of skin while dehydrated skin is a skin condition. This means that genetics are involved in preventing your dry skin from producing enough sebum, but outside factors are the cause of your dehydrated skin.

Milk is good for dry, scaly skin. It helps replenish lost oils, making the skin smooth and hydrated throughout the day.

Maracuja, Argan, Grapeseed, Olive, Sunflower, Jojoba, & Coconut are 7 natural oils for dry skin

Dry skin commonly affects areas such as the arms, hands, and lower legs. These regions are more prone to dryness due to frequent exposure and lower concentrations of oil glands.

Yes, dry skin can sometimes indicate underlying conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, hypothyroidism, or diabetes. If you have concerns, it's important to seek medical advice.

Yes, dry skin can affect the scalp, leading to flaking and itching. To maintain scalp health, use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and avoid over-washing your hair.

Yes, wearing rough or synthetic fabrics can irritate dry skin. Opt for soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, which are gentler on the skin and help prevent irritation.

Dry skin is more common in winter due to lower humidity levels and indoor heating, which can strip the skin of moisture. Summer activities like swimming in chlorinated pools can also cause dryness.