What is dry skin?

Dry skin, or xerosis to use the medical term, is a common skin problem. Dry skin effects all ages but as we get older the skin retains less moisture. It can often feel tight and uncomfortable, look dull and lifeless but much can be done to bring relief.  Skin that is well hydrated skin feels good and gives a young, healthy look to the skin.

Do I have dry skin?

The mildest form of dry skin can be recognised by a feeling of slight tightness in the skin, some mild flaking and be annoying. Severe dry skin can have flaking, itching, red discolouration, severe tightness and even cracking. Dry skin can age faster as untreated dryness can lead to premature visible signs of aging.

Dry Skin – Medical Conditions

Dry skin can be part of a symptom picture for a number of underlying medical conditions, some of which can be quite serious.

An examination by a doctor is advisable if you still have chronic dry skin problems after making dietary, lifestyle and skincare regime changes. If you have dry skin that has cracked and bled, medical advice should also be sought.  Some medications that you have been advised to take can have dry skin as an unwanted side effect.

Why the skin is so important?

Skin is the primary defence system of the body and is actually classified as the largest organ of the body. If the skin is damaged in any way or becomes drier and drier until cracking in the skin occurs, there is danger that microbes can enter the skin. These microbes can enter causing bacterial and fungal infections.

Untreated dry skin can lead to dermatitis – inflammation of the skin, causing itchiness, redness and swelling and again can become open to infection, especially if it is scratched due to the itchiness. So we can see it pays to look after our skin – if you are worried about your dry skin or it is making you miserable – see your doctor.

Medical Causes

• Hypothyroidism – a low thyroid condition that can cause dry skin by reducing the amount of oil produced by the body and other symptoms such as intolerance to cold and weight gain.

• Dehydration – dry skin associated with infrequent, dark urine, headaches.

• Underweight – especially if fats have been avoided in an effort to lose weight.

• Malnutrition – linked to low oil and fatty acid intake. A healthy body and healthy skin need some oils and essential fatty acids to maintain the lipid barrier and these are some of the body’s best natural moisturisers.

• Diabetes – fluctuations in glucose levels can lead to dehydration and this also will cause the skin to dry.

• Genetic Predisposition

• Eczema and psoriasis – skin conditions that may be diagnosed.

Medications that can cause dry skin

There are a number of medications that can cause dry skin such as:

• High blood pressure medication  – diuretic action

• Allergy treatment such as antihistamines

• Retinoids used in the treatment of acne

If you notice you develop dry skin after taking a new medication, speak to your doctor.

Many cases of dry skin are easy to treat and are not a sign of more serious health conditions, but if in doubt – get it checked out.

Photographs of dry skin before treatment

Photographs of dry skin after treatment