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A common problem we see every day is dry skin. We all experience dry skin occasionally, but with the increase in handwashing and sanitizer usage, we’ve seen more and more patients coming to us with this common issue.
Is it really a thing?
“Xerosis Cutis” is the medical term for abnormally dry skin. This word is derived from the Greek word “Xero,” meaning dry, and the Latin word “Cutis,” meaning skin. It can affect any part of the body. For most people, xerosis cutis is triggered by environmental factors such as:
Bathing too frequently or over-cleansing Using excessively hot water Using strong cleansing agents Lack of moisturizer Winter weather or living in low-humidity areas Dehydration and extensive sun exposure.
In Charlotte, we typically see more patients with this condition during the fall and winter months. This is usually due to the dry, cold air and lack of humidity, which leads to the loss of natural oils and other components in the skin, preventing it from functioning properly.
Who is at risk for dry skin?
Patients over the age of 65 are more susceptible to abnormally dry skin. As we age, our skin becomes dryer and more sensitive due to hormonal changes. Other risk factors include diabetes, anemia, and thyroid imbalances.
What are the symptoms of dry skin?
Symptoms can vary from mild dryness to severe dry, itchy, and scaly skin. The symptoms usually start on the extremities, such as the hands and feet, and occasionally the face. Other symptoms include:
Red and irritated skin Fine fissures and cracks on the skin, usually worse on the hands or feet A tight sensation on the skin after showering or bathing.
How is dry skin treated?
For most people, treatment can be as simple as switching to a moisturizing soap and adding a cream or lotion after each shower or hand washing. My favorites include Cetaphil Body Wash or Aveeno Body Wash. For moisturizers, I recommend La Roche-Posay Double Repair, Lipikar, CeraVe, or Cetaphil Cream.
For severely dry, cracked hands, apply a thicker layer of moisture at the end of each day, such as Aquaphor Healing Ointment or CeraVe Healing Ointment. In some cases, to help with symptoms like itching or burning, it may be helpful to add a topical steroid, such as hydrocortisone 1% cream or ointment, in addition to the moisturizer. Look for moisturizers containing vitamin B5 or hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and lipids, which help restore the skin to its normal state.
Remember, for most people, this requires a lifestyle change. Many of my male patients are not accustomed to moisturizing regularly, but incorporating these tips into your daily routine is crucial to keeping dry, itchy skin at bay. If after following these recommendations you’re still up at night itching, give us a call at Charlotte Dermatology. We’ll be happy to help!