Is it the temporary kind, which most of us suffer from due to our environment from time to times, or is it something more serious?
Run of the mill 'dry skin'
Usually triggered by simple changes in conditions like hot or cold weather, a change in humidity, or even a dip in a chlorine filled pool! Your average, common garden variety of dry skin isn't serious and can be easily fixed by moisturising.
Chronic dry skin
Which type of issue are you suffering from? Is it atopic dermatitis or eczema, common, especially with children, or ichthyosis – or even psoriasis, both of which need a doctor's intervention? Is it just a rash or is your skin flaking and cracking, which could lead to further infection?
Dry skin checklist
To establish whether your dry skin type is chronic, and therefore serious, simply go through this checklist.
- Despite moisturising, skin is still dry
- Dry skin is also red and patchy
- The itching is stopping me from sleeping
- Scratching has led to open sores and infection
- Skin is flaking and falling off
Answered yes to these? Then you should consult a dermatologist or doctor for further advice on your dry skin condition.
Related conditions
Severe lack of moisture or dehydration can also lead to headaches and losing your skin’s elasticity. You may also notice your lips are chapped and crack easily, which can be very sore. Your doctor might check for underlying medical conditions such as an underactive thyroid, which could explain your dry skin, after having ticked off all the usual suspects which range from harsh detergents, common allergens, temperatures, or lack of humidity in your everyday environment.
