Dry Skin Patches

With the onset of winters, experiencing dry skin is something that is not at all unusual. During winters, the skin loses moisture faster than any other time of the year. However, dry skin patches, or xerosis as it is commonly known, can occur in any other season if one has other related skin conditions. The skin needs adequate moisture to stay smooth and supple. Hence, when sebum levels drops, the skin turns dry, flaky and sensitive. If you are suffering from dry skin, your skin might feel tight and it can be accompanied by itching and redness.

Healthy skin is very important, as it is the body's first defense against all infections. Skin that is dry, scaly or flaky has more chances of being infected with bacteria. This is because, as we scratch dry, itching skin, small microscopic tears are produced on the skin which facilitates the entrance of germs which leads to an infection. The occurrence of dry patches on skin is not restricted to a specific part of our body. Dry skin patches can appear on any part of the body and the legs and arms are the most susceptible. The occurrence of dry skin patches on neck or face is the most embarrassing, as it affects a person's self-esteem.

Dry Skin Patches Causes

It is not just environmental conditions that contributes to low sebum secretion. Many skin related conditions including infections as well as some diseases like diabetes and hypothyroidism can cause the skin to become dry, flaky or patchy. Some of the reasons that dry patches can appear on the body have been listed below.

Environmental Causes

• Seasonal Changes: The low or high levels of moisture in the environment can make the skin feel dry. This is most likely to happen during winters, when there is very little moisture in the air.
• Exposure to Sun: People who expose themselves for long hours in the sun, cause extensive damage to the skin's layer. Collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis break down faster, when exposed to the ultraviolet (UV) radiation penetration. This in turn causes many skin problems like dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles and dry skin.
• Artificial Climatic Conditioning: Central heating and air conditioning is another cause for the skin feeling dry. Whether heating or cooling, these artificial methods reduce humidity from the room.

Cosmetic Causes

• Harsh Toiletries and Detergents: Many soaps, body washes and detergents make use of chemicals that strip the body's natural moisture and do very little in terms of replenishing it. Even harsh shampoos can lead to a dry, itchy scalp. One of the primary reasons for dry skin patches on face is use of cosmetics that contain harmful chemicals. And as facial skin is more delicate compared to other parts, it gets affected quickly.
• Hot Showers: It is very tempting to shower with hot water in the cold winter months. However, you need to remember that taking frequent long baths, with very hot water causes the skin to dry out. Even swimming in chlorinated swimming pools or salty sea water will deplete the skin's natural moisture.

Medical Conditions

• Eczema: A very common skin condition, eczema, also known as seborrheic dermatitis can also cause dry skin patches. This condition is characterized by scaly, flaky, red patches, cradle cap and also tiny fluid filled lesions. Its occurrence could be caused due to genetic, hormonal or environmental factors.
• Psoriasis: A chronic, auto immune disease, psoriasis is caused due to a type of white blood cell called T lymphocyte or T cell that attacks healthy skin cells. Stress, infections, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can all trigger it, leading to a severe form of psoriasis. It is characterized by red scaly patches, discoloration of the nails, and skin inflammation.
• Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is a thyroid disorder, wherein the body lacks sufficient thyroid hormone, slowing down the body's metabolism. This disorder is characterized by a dry, rough pale skin.

Dry skin patches can be treated with a variety of drugs or medication. For skin that has gone dry due to environmental reasons, you can use a good quality moisturizer or emollient. You can also add an extra dose of vitamin E through supplements and/or diet. Additionally, you can also invest in a humidifier to maintain the ideal level of moisture in your room. If you are suffering from dry skin patches due to medical reasons, it's best to consult a doctor to determine the proper course of treatment.