What are dry skin conditions?

Abstract

Dry and chapped skin is a very common problem both in healthy individuals and in patients with skin diseases. It can occur in association with ageing, in response to the environment and in genetically based disorders. In all cases, emollients play an important role in rehydrating the stratum corneum. As skin ages, changes occur in both the dermis and the epidermis where, in particular, the water-binding capacity of the stratum corneum decreases. Central heating and frequent washing are common causes of senile xerosis. Dry skin is usually associated with impaired barrier function. Certain occupations such as housework, nursing and manual work carry a high risk of cumulative irritant contact dermatitis as they involve exposure to organic solvents, detergents and particulate waste. Genetically based disorders include atopic dermatitis, an extremely itchy disorder of unknown cause, and psoriasis. The latter is a common inflammatory skin disorder of unknown origin affecting 2% of the population and is characterized by red scaling and anhydrotic plaques. The effects of a hydrocolloid on keratinization in psoriasis and the effect of an ointment base on epidermal growth, differentiation and inflammation are discussed. The ichthyoses and other dry skin conditions are also considered.

Key Words:

• Dry skin
• Emollients
• Contact dermatitis
• Eczema
• Psoriasis