Common Ailments
DRY SKIN
Dry skin is a condition where the skin is red, scaly and itchy. The problem is usually worse in the autumn and winter. It is most common on the face, hands, arms and legs.
CAUSES OF DRY SKIN
Healthy skin is kept soft and supple by producing its own moisturising oils and by its ability to hold moisture.
This process becomes more difficult as we become older. Genes also play a role. If you have relatives who suffer from dry skin, you are more likely to develop the condition.
Other causes of dry skin include:
- Extreme weather conditions, hot and sunny, cold and windy
- Frequent, prolonged or excessive contact with water
- Frequent, prolonged or excessive contact with detergents such as soap and washing-up liquid
- A decrease in sweat production
- Excessive sunbathing
- Allergic reaction to an irritant e.g. jewellery, perfume, lanolin
TREATMENT
A wide variety of products are available over the counter to treat dry skin. 
Emollients and moisturisers must be used regularly to moisten the skin adequately. Ointments are generally preferable to creams if the greasiness can be tolerated, as they are suitable for very dry skin. Bath oils and creams should be used in combination for the best results.
If itching is a particular problem and anti-pruritic products such as chlorpheniramine may be of use. Ask your Pharmacist for more information about chlorpheniramine.
Where dry skin is caused by an allergic reaction to an irritant, it is best to avoid the irritant. Products that are dermatologically tested or are labelled hypoallergenic are also recommended.
Dry skin is often a feature of inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis and in these cases a steroid cream that reduces inflammation may be helpful.
PREVENTION
Some useful tips to prevent dry skin include:
- Avoid soap, use fragrant free cleansers
- Take showers or short, cool baths instead of long, hot baths
- Dab skin dry - don't rub
- Apply a moisturiser while skin is still damp
- Air your home and turn down the heating
- Wear light clothes made of cotton
- Wash clothes in non-biological washing powders
- Wear gloves when washing up
- Do not over-indulge in sunbathing and always use a high factor sun screen
For further advice on dry skin contact your Numark Pharmacist.
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