Dry Skin

The skin naturally becomes drier with age. The body produces less oil and moisture. The skin also becomes thinner and less elastic. Dry skin is not a serious health risk. With self-care, it can be easily managed. When it is a symptom of a health condition, treating the condition treats the dry skin.

Signs & Symptoms

• Itchy skin. The skin can be red from scratching it.
• Chapped skin
• Skin that cracks, peels, and/or flakes

Causes, Risk Factors & Care

• Aging
• Cold winter weather
• Sun damage
• Dry air or heat
• Harsh skin products
• Washing the skin often
• Some medications
• Allergies
• An underactive thyroid gland; diabetes; and/or kidney disease
• Other skin conditions, such as psoriasis

Self-Care / Prevention

• Drink 8 or more glasses of water a day.
• Moisturize your skin daily and after washing your hands.
• Don’t overexpose your skin to water, such as with washing dishes. Wear rubber gloves when you wash dishes.
• Take a shower instead of a bath. Use warm (not hot) water. Apply a moisturizer that contains lanolin, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid while your skin is damp.
• If you prefer to bathe, bathe for only 15 to 20 minutes in lukewarm water. Pat yourself dry. Do not rub.
• Use a washcloth instead of soaping the skin directly.
• Use a gentle cleanser or allergen-free soap, avoid deodorant, medicated, or alkaline soaps.
• Don’t use moisturizers with fragrances, preservatives, or alcohol.
• Use a night cream for the face.
• Stay out of the strong sun.
• Do not use tanning salons or sun lamps.
• Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
• Avoid scratching your skin.
• Rinse and moisturize after swimming, especially if you swim in a heavily chlorinated pool.

Contact Doctor When:

• You have any of these problems with dry skin:
  • Deep cracks on the hands or feet