Dry Skin - Symptoms & Treatment

Dry skin has a low level of sebum and can be prone to sensitivity. It happens more often in the winter when cold air outside and heated air inside cause low humidity. Forced-air furnaces make skin even drier. Dryness is exacerbated by wind, extremes of temperature and air-conditioning, all of which cause the skin to flake, chap and feel tight. More serious dry skin conditions, such as the inherited group of disorders called ichthyosis, can sometimes be disfiguring enough to cause psychological distress. This type of skin is tightly drawn over bones. It looks dull, especially on the cheeks and around the eyes. There may be tiny expression lines on these spots and at the comers of the mouth. Fortunately, most dry skin results from environmental factors that can be wholly or partially controlled. These include exposure to hot or cold weather with low humidity levels, long-term use of air conditioning or central heating, and excessive bathing. Dry skin occurs most commonly on the arms and legs, but can also affect the trunk of the body.

Dry skin, also called xerosis, is a common problem. Babies and young children are also often susceptible to dry skin because the oil producing glands haven't developed properly. Central air and heating, wood-burning stoves, space heaters and fireplaces all reduce humidity and dry your skin. Avoid the use of tap water when cleansing dry skin. Use mineral water to freshen your face. Don't use a washcloth-a rough texture can irritate. In the morning, apply a spray of mineral water on your skin misted on with a plant sprayer. Modifying your bathing routine will help preserve your skin's moisture. Bathing provides the skin will moisturize temporarily, but it removes the skin's oily lipid layer and in the long run causes more moisture loss than gain. If you have very dry and scaly skin, your doctor may recommend you use an over-the-counter cream that contains lactic acid or lactic acid and urea. Rose water, almond oil, honey, olive oil, and beaten curd can all be used as good face packs. Dry skin can often seem rough and certain spots can seem to be constantly flaking.

Causes of Dry skin

Common causes of Dry skin:

• Eczema.
• A genetic condition.
• Exposure to sun, wind, cold, chemicals.
• Sun exposure.
• Excessive bathing with harsh soaps.
• Dehydration.
• Extreme weather conditions.

Symptoms of Dry skin

Some sign and symptoms related to Dry skin are as follows:

• A feeling of skin tightness.
• Pruritus that sometimes may be intense.
• Fine lines or cracks.
• Skin that appears shrunken or dehydrated.
• Deep fissures that may bleed.

Treatment of Dry skin

The common treatment of Dry skin:

• In most cases, dry skin problems respond well to self-care measures, such as using moisturizers and avoiding long, hot showers and baths.
• An over the counter cream that contains lactic acid or lactic acid and urea may be used in some cases.
• Use an electric razor.
• Apply an emollient liberally and often, particularly after bathing, and when itchy. The drier the skin, the thicker this should be, especially on the hands.
• Drink two to three quarts of liquid a day with approval from your doctor.
• Using a moisturizing body soap and hand soap.