Abstract
Dry skin, or asteatosis, that is flaky, scaly, and cracked may be caused by cold, dry weather, an allergic skin condition (eczema), or some nutritional deficiencies. Some of the many ways of dealing with dry skin include limited bathing; limited use of soaps; moisturising creams, oils, and lotions; a balanced diet; improving circulation through exercise; drinking sufficient fluids; and steroid creams to treat eczema.
Alternative Names
Asteatosis
What is it?
Dry skin refers to skin that lacks moisture, typically becoming flaky, scaly, and cracked.
Common Causes
Dry skin is very common. It often runs in families, implying a genetic, inherited, link. Dry skin is more common in people with eczema (allergic skin condition). Dry skin is more common during cold weather and in dry climates. Certain nutritional deficiencies may cause dry skin.
The Doctor’s Approach
Your doctor will want to rule out any nutritional deficiencies and will then advise:
- Limited bathing and showering
- Limited use of soaps
- Liberal use of moisturising creams, oils, and lotions
- Eating a good, balanced diet
- Exercising regularly (improves circulation)
- Drink sufficient fluids
- Treatment of any eczema (usually with steroid creams)
In addition, your doctor will make sure that the problem is dry skin, and not some other form of skin rash that may need different treatment.
Special Issues
It seems that there is no perfect solution for this very common problem – hence the great variety of treatments offered by all sorts of people, ranging from doctors to cosmetics salespeople.
Written by Dr Colin Burns
