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OverviewTreatment

Skin - dry

Definition:
This symptom is a skin irritation caused by lack of moisture in the skin.

Alternative Names:
Dry skin; Asteatosis; Winter itch

Considerations:
To help prevent dry skin, maintain moisture in the body and skin, especially during the winter.

Symptoms often associated with dry skin include:
  • Skin feels dry, may have scales
  • Itching (pruritus)
  • Cracks in the skin
  • Round patches of irritated skin
  • Most common on the lower legs, arms, flanks, and thighs


Common Causes:

Dry skin is extremely common, especially in the elderly. It is seen more often in the winter when cold air outside and heated air inside may cause a decrease in humidity. Use of a forced-air furnace increases the risk.

The skin loses moisture and may crack and peel, or become irritated and inflamed. Too frequent bathing, especially with harsh soaps, may contribute further to dry skin.



Review Date: 10/28/2001
Reviewed By: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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