Dry Skin

What is it?

Xerosis cutis (dry skin) is one of the most prevalent dermatologic conditions, affecting up to 50% of older adults. The stratum corneum — the outermost skin layer — normally retains moisture through natural moisturizing factors and lipid barriers. When these are disrupted (by age, environment, over-washing, or disease), transepidermal water loss increases, causing dryness, tightness, scaling, and itch. Most dry skin is benign and environmental. However, severe or generalized dry skin may reflect hypothyroidism, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, or kidney disease. Chronic dry skin significantly impairs quality of life and increases infection risk from skin barrier breakdown.

Common causes

When to see a doctor

• 1Dry skin with intense, persistent itching not responding to moisturizers
• 2Skin cracking, bleeding, or showing signs of infection (redness, warmth, pus)
• 3Widespread dry skin with fatigue, cold intolerance, and weight gain (hypothyroidism)
• 4Dry skin in someone with chronic kidney disease — uremic pruritus
• 5Dry skin in a child that is widespread, inflamed, or accompanied by asthma and allergies (eczema)
• 6Ichthyosis — fish-scale skin pattern from birth or childhood

What you can do

• ✓Moisturize immediately after bathing (within 3 minutes) while skin is still slightly damp — seals in moisture
• ✓Choose thick creams or ointments over thin lotions — they are more effective barriers
• ✓Bathe in lukewarm (not hot) water and limit to 5–10 minutes
• ✓Use fragrance-free, gentle cleansers — avoid antibacterial soaps that strip skin oils
• ✓Use a humidifier in your bedroom during winter months
• ✓Wear gloves when washing dishes or doing housework with chemical products

Conditions that cause this symptom

Medications that may help

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Always consult your provider before starting any medication.

Frequently asked questions