Dry skin is a very common skin condition, usually characterized by irritated skin and itchiness.
Dry skin can result from aging, a dry climate, excessive exposure to water and soaps, malnutrition, renal (kidney) disease or hereditary skin conditions. Without treatment, dry skin may become flaky or scaly.
Common symptoms of dry skin include:
Dry skin symptoms may resemble other skin conditions or result from other disorders. It is always important to consult your physician for a diagnosis.
Treating dry skin may be as simple as keeping the skin moist by taking fewer baths and using ointments or creams that keep moisture in. At UCLA Dermatology, our physicians may prescribe a prescription medication to apply to your skin if it does not respond to lifestyle changes such as:
Call your physician if:
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (310) 825-6911.