Xeroderma, xerosis or xerosis cutis, or simply dry skin, is a skin condition characterized by excessively dry skin.
In most cases, dry skin can safely be treated with (also called emollients). Xeroderma occurs most commonly on the scalp, lower Human leg, , hands, , the sides of the abdomen, and . Symptoms most associated with xeroderma are such skin conditions as scaling (the visible peeling of the outer skin layer), itching, and (cracked skin).
Causes
Xeroderma is a very common condition. It happens more often in the winter when the cold air outside and the hot air inside create a low relative humidity. This causes the skin to lose moisture and it may crack and peel.
Bathing or
hand washing too frequently, especially if one is using harsh
, can contribute to xeroderma. Xeroderma can be caused by a deficiency of vitamin A, vitamin D,
Zinc deficiency,
systemic illness, severe
sunburn, or some
medication.
Xeroderma can be caused by choline inhibitors.
Detergents such as
washing powder and dishwashing liquid can cause xeroderma.
Prevention
Today, many creams and lotions, commonly based on vegetable oils/butters, petroleum oils/jellies, and
lanolin are widely available. As a preventive measure, such products may be rubbed onto the affected area as needed (often every other day) to prevent dry skin. The skin is then patted dry to prevent the removal of natural lipids from the skin. Taking a shower or washing hands with special moisturizing soaps or body washes can protect the skin from drying out further.
Treatment
Repeated application (typically over a few days) of
emollients or skin lotions/creams to the affected area will likely result in quick alleviation of xeroderma. In particular, the application of highly occlusive barriers to moisture, such as
petrolatum, vegetable oils/butters, and
mineral oil have been shown to provide excellent results. Many individuals find specific commercial skin creams and lotions (often comprising oils, butters, and or waxes emulsified in water) quite effective (although individual preferences and results vary among the wide array of commercially available creams).
Lanolin, a natural mixture of lipids derived from sheep's wool, helps replace natural lipids in human skin and has been used since ancient times (and in modern medicine) as among the most powerful treatments for xeroderma. Some people may, however, have allergies to lanolin, producing the opposite of the desired effect.
Safety
Many skin creams include common allergens such as fragrances,
, and lanolin.
See also
External links
