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Make this my homepageDry skin
Dry skin is a very common skin condition which can affect the whole body, but usually appears on the face, hands, arms and legs. While it is not harmful from a medical point of view, it can make you feel very uncomfortable. In mild cases, the skin may feel dry and tight. There may be red or white patches which can feel itchy. The skin can also appear scaly or flaky. In the worst cases, there can be bleeding or even pain.
Dry skin is not always a symptom of disease. It can be the result of a dry environment, use of harsh soap products, insufficient fluid intake or excessive sunbathing. Dry skin can run in the family and age is a factor, too: over the years, the skin loses its ability to retain moisture, while oil-producing sebaceous glands reduce in number. Dry skin tends to get worse in autumn and winter.
Dry skin can also be a symptom of other skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis or ichthyosis. If you suspect this might be the case, consult your doctor as soon as possible.
Sources
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/health_advice/facts/dryskin.htm (last accessed May 2010)
http://www.skinhelp.co.uk/WhatIsAndWhatCausesDrySkin.html (last accessed May 2010)
