Dry Patches on Skin

Dry patches on skin is a problem faced by many, especially those with a dry skin type. Though, most of the time, these patches are considered to be a minor problem, at times, it may also be an indication of a serious skin disorder. Dry patch on skin can appear in any of the areas of the body, but are more common in areas like the face, neck, hands and legs. The patches on the skin may be accompanied by other symptoms like redness, scaly or flaky skin and itchiness. Proper diagnosis of this skin condition and its cause is essential for its appropriate treatment.

Causes?

Dry skin patch can be a result of nutritional deficiency, a medical skin disorder, fungal infections, improper skin care and skin reactions or allergies. Medical skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis cause skin patches that are dark and flaky. The skin appears to be irritated and at times, even inflamed. The use or overuse of certain cosmetics, skin care products and soaps that may not be suitable for your skin type can also cause patchy dry red skin on face. Dry skin patches may also, appear as a result of excessive loss of water from the body or dehydration. Spending long hours in a hot bath or in an air-conditioned room can also, lead to the development of dry patches. The process of aging causes the skin to lose elastin and collagen, which can lead to dry skin patches on face.

Treatment

Treating dry skin patches would involve treating the cause or the medical condition causing the skin condition. Over-the-counter medication, along with the use of some simple remedies can also, be helpful in curing the external causes of this condition. You can use anti-itch creams or ointments that contain ingredients like camphor, vitamin E, menthol, pramoxine and diphenhydramine. There are also, various other skin products that are available commercially for the treatment of dry skin patches.

Remedies

Following some remedies for dry skin patches can prove to be effective in treating and preventing these patches. These remedies will also be useful in maintaining the health and natural look of your skin.

Drink Water
Keeping your skin hydrated is extremely essential in treating and preventing any kind of dry skin problem. Water keeps your skin hydrated and aids the process of production of natural oils from the sebaceous glands. If you are suffering from dry skin patches on skin, you must consume plenty of water throughout the day and this can be done in the form of fruit and vegetable juices as well.

Moisturize
Another essential routine to follow, in order to treat dry skin patches, is to moisturize the area frequently with a good moisturizer that is meant for the dry skin type and dry facial skin. Moisturize the area at least thrice in a day or as frequently as possible and avoid the use of cosmetics or soaps on the affected area. Make sure you moisturize the area immediately after it is exposed to water.

Sun Protection
Exposure of the affected area to the harmful UV rays of the sun can cause further damage to the skin and hence, you must use sunblocks or sunscreen lotions every time you venture out in the sun.

Skin Care
Follow a regular skin care routine, to get rid of all kinds of skin problems. Exfoliate and moisturize the problem areas on a regular basis. Exfoliation will help get rid of the dry, flaky skin and rejuvenate the skin cells.

Diet
Taking a healthy diet is essential for healthy skin and to prevent dry skin patches. Follow a diet rich in vitamin E, A and C and essential minerals to cure dry skin patches.

Apart from the remedies mentioned above, you can also try to use a dry skin remedy to cure these dry patches. If the problem persists, consult a dermatologist without any delay for medical treatment.