Xeroderma: Dry and Itchy Skin
Dry skin is a common complaint among individuals. It is more common in the elderly. Dry skin often lacks moisture and sheen and appears dull, chapped, and shrivelled. When compared to normal skin, dry skin is less elastic and bruises more easily. It could potentially cause scaling and irritation.
About Dry Skin
Dry skin appears withered and wrinkled. It primarily affects the legs and arms. However, skin anywhere on the body can be affected. The look and distribution of dry skin might differ from person to person due to age, health status, and causative factors. Dry skin seems rougher, tighter, and cracked, and it may peel or flake. Fine wrinkles may be apparent, and the skin may be red and itchy. When scratched repeatedly, little red bleeding spots may appear, which may merge to become painful bleeding fissures.
Dry skin might emerge intermittently during the winter or as a chronic concern as we age. It is frequently a long-term issue. To keep the skin moist, moisturized, and healthy, precautions and care are continuously required.
Causes
Dry skin can occur for a variety of reasons. Dry skin is frequently caused by aging. As we age, our skin generates less oil and loses its ability to absorb moisture. Exposure to extremes in temperature and weather is another major cause of dry skin. The skin is the only organ that is always exposed to the outside environment. Dry skin is particularly common in the winter because the cold, dry weather dehydrates it. Extreme heat and low humidity are other contributing factors. Long-term exposure to air conditioning or central heating is harmful to the skin and can cause dryness. Bathing in hot water is another reason that contributes to dryness. Similarly, excessive sun exposure over extended periods of time can promote skin dryness. Some dermatological disorders, such as eczema, which is an inflammatory swelling of the skin’s surface layer, can produce itching and dryness. Dryness can also occur in pregnant women as a result of hormonal changes and general medical conditions such as thyroid gland dysfunction.
Prevention
A glowing youthful skin is not a distant dream if the skin is given due care. Some simple things can prevent the skin from aging prematurely. Some substances can assist in protecting the skin and keeping it from drying out. Extremes of heat and cold, as well as harsh weather, should be avoided. It is advisable to apply sunscreen before going out in the sun. A humidifier must be used to preserve appropriate moisture in the air if the air is too dry. Bathing behaviors need to be addressed; by avoiding hot water and strong soaps. Baths are preferred over showers and should last for a brief while. Bathing too frequently should be avoided. After a bath, the skin should be patted dry rather than rubbed. Mild cleansers can be used to keep the skin clean, and alcohol-containing cosmetics or toiletries should be avoided. Bath oils and moisturizers prove to be beneficial for regular use.
In severe circumstances, thick moisturizers are preferable. These are best used immediately after a bath, while the skin is still damp. Hydration should be maintained throughout the day by drinking plenty of water. If your hands and feet are very dry, wear gloves and socks to protect them. Lip balms containing petroleum jelly should be applied to the lips. Some lifestyle adjustments can aid in the treatment of dry skin. Avoid smoking and get enough sleep. Fish oil supplements may aid by supplying essential oils that can restore skin radiance. Exercise benefits the skin by increasing blood flow. It is critical to exercise for at least thirty minutes every day. To avoid friction on the skin, dress comfortably in soft fabric.
Treatment
If dry skin is unresponsive to moisturizers and emollients and persists despite avoiding triggering causes, it is critical to consult a physician. Seek medical help if the itching is strong and persistent, the skin is cracked and chapped, sores occur on the skin, sleep is disrupted, or there is any new growth or coloring that lasts more than two weeks. A doctor should be consulted if you have a fever and pus or blood in your dry region. Moisturizing the skin is the most popular treatment option for dry skin. Moisturizers come in the form of ointments, creams, and lotions. These differ in terms of viscosity and spreadability. Long-term usage of moisturizers does not harm the skin and provides long-term protection. Other dry skin treatments include white petroleum jelly, baby oil, and humectants. Emollients containing vitamin E are beneficial in softening and smoothening the skin.
The itching may be intense if the dry skin is severe. For relief, the use of medications may be required. Histamine-blocking medications can help with itching. Histamine is a chemical mediator of itching and antihistamines that antagonize its action can help relieve the symptoms. When applied to the skin, creams containing corticosteroids provide relief from itching. In some circumstances, phototherapy, or light therapy, may be required. Other medications may be utilized to calm the skin for short-term comfort such as topical anesthetics such as lidocaine or benzocaine, as well as ointments and lotions containing menthol, camphor, or calamine. If an underlying medical condition is suspected of causing dry skin and itching, it should be addressed and treated effectively.
