Skin, dry

Alternative names:

asteatosis; dry skin; winter itch

Definition:

A skin irritation caused by lack of moisture in the skin.

Considerations:

To help prevent dry skin, maintain moisture of the body and skin, especially during the winter.

Symptoms often associated with dry skin include:

• skin feels dry, may have scales
• 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.

There are other causes of dry skin. The list of all possible causes can be extensive and include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the list will vary based on age and gender of the individual as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for this symptom occurring alone or in combination with other problems.