Dermatology

Common Skin Disorders

Dry Skin

What is dry skin?

Dry skin is a very common skin condition, usually characterized by irritated skin and itchiness. Dry skin often worsens in the winter, when the air is cold and dry. In addition, frequent bathing can aggravate dry skin. Dry skin may become flaky or scaly.

However, dry skin symptoms may resemble other skin conditions or result from other disorders such as an underactive thyroid or AIDS. Consult a physician for diagnosis.

Treatment for dry skin:

Treating dry skin may be as simple as keeping the skin moist -- by taking fewer baths and using ointments or creams that keep the moisture in. Treatment may also include:

avoiding harsh soaps, detergents, and perfumes, which tend to dry the skin.
avoiding rubbing or scratching the skin, which can aggravate the symptoms and cause infection.
applying a salicylic acid solution or cream (which removes the top layer of skin) -- if the skin is scaly.

This page was last updated on: January 30, 2008.

For patient inquiries, call 1-800-492-5538 or click here to make an appointment.

Email this Page

Print this Page

© 2008 University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). All rights reserved. UMMC is a member of the University of Maryland Medical System, 22 S. Greene Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. 1.800.492.5538 TDD: 1.800.735.2258
Physician Referral: 1.800.373.4111