Dry skin (Xerosis) is a common problem.  It can occur at any age and for many reasons.  Your skin needs moisture to stay smooth and supple.  Retaining moisture in our skin becomes more difficult as we age.  Our skin often loses more moisture in the winter.  Using a moisturizer often helps repair dry skin.

 

Sometimes people need a dermatologist’s help to get relief from dry skin.  Extremely dry skin can be a warning sign of a skin problem called dermatitis.

 Dermatitis means inflammation of the skin.  It can cause an itchy rash or patches of dry irritated skin.  The earlier dermatitis is diagnosed and treated the better.  Without treatment, dermatitis often gets worse.