Dry skin can occur as a symptom of a particular skin condition, the skin may also appear red, scaly and itchy.

It is extremely common in people who suffer from eczema and dermatitis. Emollients used to prevent dry skin can also protect the skin and regular use can help reduce the frequency and severity of flare ups.

The severity of eczema varies; in mild forms there may be small areas of skin that are dry and itchy. In more severe cases, a larger area of skin may be affected, causing constant itching and oozing fluid. Constant scratching can also cause the skin to split, leaving it prone to infection.

There are several types of eczema, the main ones being atopic eczema, allergic contact dermatitis and irritant dermatitis.

Causes of dry skin

Healthy skin is kept soft and supple by producing its own moisturising oils and by its ability to hold moisture.

This process tend to slow as we get older. Genetics also plays a role. If you have relatives who suffer from dry skin, you may be more likely to develop the condition.

Other causes of dry skin include:

• Extreme weather conditions.
• Frequent, prolonged or excessive contact with water.
• Frequent, prolonged or excessive contact with detergents such as soap and washing up liquid.
• A decrease in sweat production.
• Excessive sunbathing.
• Allergic reaction to an irritant e.g. jewellery or perfume.

Treatment of dry skin

A wide variety of products are available over the counter to treat dry skin. Emollients and moisturisers should be used regularly to moisten the skin adequately. Ointments are generally preferable to creams if the greasiness can be tolerated, as they are suitable for very dry
skin. Bath emollients and creams should be used in combination to maximise results.

Where dry skin is caused by an allergic reaction, it is best to avoid the irritant. Products that are dermatologically tested or labelled ‘hypoallergenic’ are also recommended.

Atopic eczema
Atopic eczema is the most common type of childhood eczema and is linked with hayfever and asthma. The tendency to develop atopic eczema is inherited but it is strongly influenced by environmental factors. Atopic means extra sensitivity to substances that cause an allergy (allergens). The most common allergens are house mites, pollen, cat/dog fur and sometimes foodstuffs. The areas commonly affected include skin creases such as the fronts of elbows and wrists and backs of knees. However, any area of the skin may be affected. Babies are more likely to develop eczema on their face which can be extremely uncomfortable.

Allergic contact dermatitis
This type of eczema develops when the body’s immune system reacts against a substance in contact with the skin. The allergic reaction often develops over a period of time through repeated contact with the substance. For example, an allergic reaction may occur to nickel, which is often found in earrings, belt buckles etc. In order to prevent repeated reactions it is best to avoid contact with anything that you know causes a rash.

Irritant contact dermatitis
In this type of eczema, it is the frequent contact with an everyday substance such as detergents or chemicals that are irritating the skin. It most commonly occurs on the hands of adults and can be prevented by avoiding the irritants and keeping the skin moisturised.

Treatment of eczema
There is currently no cure for atopic eczema, although there are many ways to minimise the discomfort and distress caused. The three main goals of treatment are healing the skin and keeping it healthy, preventing flare-ups and treating symptoms as they occur. A wide range of treatments are available from your pharmacy. Treatment is based on the use of emollients (moisturisers) including soap substitutes, bath oils and general moisturisers and topical steroids for flare-ups.

Emollients
Emollients reduce water loss from the outer layer of the skin by covering it with a protective film. This keeps the water in the skin where it is needed. They should be used regularly and are available in various forms: sprays, ointments for very dry skin, creams and lotions for moderate/dry skins.
Some are applied directly to the skin whilst others are used as a soap substitute or can be added to the bath. Sprays may be easier to use and more convenient. They help prevent skin damage as they avoid direct contact with the skin.

Topical steroids
When eczema is under control, only emollients need to be used. However, in flare-ups, when the skin becomes red and inflamed, a steroid cream may be needed. Topical steroids should be applied thinly to the affected area on unbroken skin, your pharmacist can advise you on how to use them safely.

Antihistamines
Sedative antihistamines may sometimes help to reduce the itch of eczema at night and give a good night’s sleep. They can make you feel drowsy the next day so take care if you are driving or if you are treating a child going to school. Antihistamine creams must be avoided as the ingredients in them can make the eczema worse.

Prevention of dry skin and eczema

Some useful tips to protect the skin include:

• Avoid soap, use fragrance free cleansers.
• Take showers or short, cool baths instead of long, hot baths.
• Dab skin dry – don’t rub.
• Apply a moisturiser while skin is still damp.
• Air your home and turn down the heating.
• Wear light clothes made of cotton.
• Wash clothes in non-biological washing powders.
• Wear gloves when washing up.
• Keep children’s nails clean and short. Cotton mittens can be helpful at night to prevent
  scratching.
• It’s best to avoid sunbathing and always use a high factor sun screen.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website does not replace medical advice.

If you want to find out more, or are worried about any medical issue or symptoms that you may be experiencing, please contact our pharmacist or see your doctor.