Definition    

     Dry skin is most common in your lower legs, arms, flanks (sides of the abdomen), and thighs.

Causes

     Dry skin is common. It happens more often in the winter when cold air outside and heated air inside cause low humidity. Forced-air furnaces make skin even drier.

     The skin loses moisture and may crack and peel, or become irritated and inflamed. Bathing too frequently, especially with harsh soaps, may contribute to dry skin. Eczema may cause dry skin.

Symptoms

     The symptoms most often associated with dry skin include:

• Scaling

• Itching

• Cracks in the skin

Treatment

     It may help to change your bathing habits:

• Keep baths or showers short.

• Use warm (not hot) water.

• Use as little soap as possible. Limit its use to face, armpits, and genitals if you can. Try mild cleansers like Aveeno or Cetaphil or mild soaps like Neutrogena or Dove.

• Dry your skin thoroughly but gently -- pat, DON'T rub.

• Take baths or showers less often.

     Also, increase skin and body moisture:

• Use bath oils and moisturizers at least daily. Thick, greasy moisturizers work best. Avoid products with alcohol. Apply just after a bath or shower, when your skin is still damp.

• Use a humidifier if the air is dry.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

     Apply cool compresses to itchy areas, and try over-the-counter cortisone creams or lotions if your skin is inflamed. If this is not enough, talk to your doctor about possible prescription lotions.