Dry Skin

Dry skin appears rough, itchy, flaky, or scaly. Dry skin patches appear in different places on the body. People of all ages suffer from this condition. It is also called xerosis or xeroderma. Various factors can cause it, such as cold or dry weather, sun exposure, harsh soaps, and overbathing.

Dry skin can be seasonal or develop because of underlying medical conditions, including dermatitis, psoriasis, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, etc. People who work in certain occupations such as catering, hairdressing, healthcare, construction, woodworking, and the rubber industry are more likely to develop dry skin. It is due to constant exposure to water and harsh chemicals. Stress, anxiety, and a lack of water can also cause the skin to become dry.

You can treat dry skin by taking care of it yourself and getting medical care. Moisturizing the skin with moisturizers and protecting it from the sun is the key to managing it. Wearing loose cotton clothing over tight synthetic fabrics can also help. Untreated, dry skin can cause infections, severe itching, and more severe skin conditions, such as eczema, contact dermatitis, etc.

Dry skin occurs when the outer layer of the skin loses water. It might be caused by:

• Environment – A low-humidity climate or cold, windy conditions.

• Heat – Woodburning stoves, space heaters, and fireplaces all lower humidity.

• Too much bathing or scrubbing – Scrubbing your skin too much or taking long, hot showers or baths can dry out your skin.

• Harsh soaps and detergents – Many popular soaps, detergents, and shampoos strip moisture from your skin because they are formulated to remove oil.

• Aging – The skin thins over time and produces less oil that keeps the skin hydrated.

• Other skin conditions – Skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) and psoriasis are more likely to cause dry skin.

• Medical treatments – Some people develop dry, thick skin after receiving cancer treatment, dialysis, or taking certain medications.

Medical Conditions

• Hyperparathyroidism
• Hypothyroidism
• Malabsorption
• Chronic kidney disease
• Diabetes mellitus
• Liver disorders (primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerotic cholangitis, drug-induced cholestasis, extrahepatic cholestasis)
• Hepatitis B and C infections
• HIV infection
• Hodgkin’s disease
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Multiple myeloma
• Chronic inflammatory bowel disease (gluten sensitivity)
• Rheumatic disease

To find out the cause of your dry skin, the following tests are conducted:

Physical examination and medical history

A visual examination of the skin is usually the best way to diagnose dry skin. Your doctor will gather complete medical history information. Your doctor will also ask you about the medications you are taking, your bathing habits, your occupation, and your family history. As a result, the health care provider will be able to guide the treatment plan more effectively.

Blood tests

• Thyroid Profile
• Blood Glucose Fasting
• Kidney Function Test
• Liver Function Test
• Calcium Test

Biopsy

For severe cases, a skin biopsy can also confirm the diagnosis and determine treatment. In addition, it can be used to distinguish between conditions that appear similar. During this procedure, a piece of skin tissue is removed and examined under a microscope.

It can be of the following types:

• Shave biopsy:This technique involves removing a thin slice from the top of the skin.

• Punch biopsy: Punch biopsy is generally used to diagnose rashes by removing a cylindrical piece of skin from the affected area.

• Excisions: These examine deeper and larger tissues. Most commonly, it is used to detect skin cancers.

In general, dry skin responds well to lifestyle measures like using moisturizers and avoiding long, hot baths and showers.

The following lifestyle and home remedies can help keep your skin moist and healthy:

• Gently wash your face at least twice a day
• Apply moisturizer
• Use a humidifier
• Use allergen-free moisturizing soap
• Use warm water and limit bath time
• Choose fabrics that are kind to your skin
• Avoid smoking.
• Shave carefully
• Manage stress

In the case of serious skin diseases, a doctor may suggest a prescription cream or ointment.

If your dry skin becomes itchy, you can use a lotion containing hydrocortisone.

If your skin cracks open, your doctor may prescribe wet dressings to prevent infection.
A treatment plan for dry skin is based on the diagnosis of the underlying disease.