Dry skin: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia

P Dry skin occurs when your skin loses too much water and oil. Dry skin is common and can affect anyone at any age. The medical term for dry skin is xerosis.

T Causes
P Dry skin can be caused by:
- The climate, such as cold, dry winter air or hot, dry desert environments
- Dry indoor air from heating or cooling systems
- Bathing too often or too long
- Some soaps and detergents
- Skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis
- Diseases, such as diabetes, underactive thyroid, Sjögren syndrome, among others
- Certain medicines (both topical and oral)
- Aging, during which skin gets thinner and produces less natural oil

T Symptoms
P Your skin may get dry, scaly, itchy, and red. You may also have fine cracks on the skin.
P The problem is usually worse on the arms and legs.

T Exams and Tests
P The health care provider will examine your skin. You'll be asked about your health history and skin symptoms.
P If the provider suspects the dry skin is caused by a health problem that hasn't been diagnosed yet, tests will likely be ordered.

T Treatment
P Your provider may suggest home care measures, including:
- Moisturizers, especially creams or lotions that contain urea and lactic acid
- Topical steroids for areas that get very inflamed and itchy
P If your dry skin is from a health problem, you'll likely be treated for it as well.

T Prevention
P To prevent dry skin:
- Do not expose your skin to water more often than needed.
- Use lukewarm bath water. Afterward, pat the skin dry with the towel instead of rubbing.
- Choose gentle skin cleansers that are free from dyes and perfumes.

T Alternative Names
P Xerosis; Asteatotic eczema; Eczema craquele

T Images
- Xerosis - close-up

T References
P Coulson I, Cunningham C. Xerosis. In: Lebwohl MG, Heymann WR, Berth-Jones J, Coulson I, eds. Treatment of Skin Disease: Comprehensive Therapeutic Strategies. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2014:chap 250.
P Habif TP. Atopic dermatitis. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 5.

T Review Date 8/20/2016
P Updated by: David L. Swanson, MD, Vice Chair of Medical Dermatology, Associate Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Medical School, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

