Dry Itchy Skin - Its Causes And Treatment

The occurrence or dry, itchy skin is a condition that affects most people sometime in their lives. From nappy rash to bed sores, flaky irritable skin has the habit of presenting itself just when we wish it wouldn't. However, with the correct care routine, most instances can be easily overcome.

Dry, itchy skin is a condition that has many causes and its treatment varies accordingly.

Usually, the various conditions are collectively referred to as dermatitis or eczema. The two terms are often interchanged, but there is a significant difference between them.

Generally dermatitis results from external environmental factors and how your skin reacts to them.

Eczema (from the greek eczema, meaning "to boil out") normally originates from within the body and the skin condition is its outward manifestation.

Itchiness on its own is often referred to as pruritus. However, beneath these seemingly straightforward veneers lies a multitude of medical afflictions that all present similarly.

Eczema and contact dermatitis are perhaps the most widely known causes of dry, flaky skin. It is often accompanied by itching, the scratching of which results in skin deterioration and enhanced itchiness.

Contact dermatitis, as might be expected, is normally triggered by direct contact between skin and allergens. Even after the contact ceases and the source of the allergen removed, itchiness can persist.

Neurodermatitis is a sub-category of dermatitis sometimes encountered. It shows more prevalence in the middle-age range and is more common in females than in males. Emotional stress, anxiety and episodes of depression are suspected causes.

Neurodermatitis is sometimes known as lichen simplex chronicus, a name that is used because it is often characterised by lichenification of the skin.

Psoriasis is another complaint that presents with symptoms of red, scaly patches of dry itchy skin. With this condition, a person's immune system reacts incorrectly to a stimulus and accelerated growth of the skin cells follows.

A genetic component is suspected in incidences of Psoriasis but, currently, its causes are not fully understood. Environmental factors are also likely to play a part in its severity, if not the initial onset.

Whatever the exact combination of dry skin and itchiness, one initial aim of any treatment will be to alleviate the symptoms. This is imperative because repeated scratching of dry skin can lead to increased sensitivity, thickening and hardening of the epidermis. Inflammation, soreness and splitting usually follows which, in turn, can enhance the desire to scratch. The itch-scratch-itch cycle is then repeated, only this time with a greater intensity.

Moisturising is key to tackling the skin's dryness. Correctly hydrated skin aids the production of a smooth, supple epidermis.

Moisturising will also help to relieve the irritation and soreness experienced by many sufferers. The resulting soothing is vital as it helps to break the itch-scratch-itch cycle. Further damage can then be prevented and faster healing results.

Once regular moisturising has been accomplished, the next step is to identify any allergens or lifestyle choices that may have produced the initial symptoms.

Choose a mild, fragrance free soap. Take a shower rather than bath. If you must, bathe in lukewarm water only. Afterwards, use a thick, soft towel to dry yourself. Dab your skin rather than rubbing.

Household washing powders and liquids should be changed if there is any evidence of clothes rubbing on the body causing a rash or soreness.

Any rash that presents itself in the vicinity of jewellery worn or body piercing is obviously indicative of contact dermatitis. Remove the offending item and observe if any improvement results.

Look for any activity that is undertaken prior to an outbreak or worsening of the condition. DIY, gardening and an array of other popular pastimes and hobbies can all lead to skin contact with irritants and allergens.

Reduce stress and avoid situations that may lead to emotional anxiety. Can you identify particular recurring events that seem to trigger skin rashes and itchiness?

Ensure your diet is varied and wholesome. Deficiency in certain minerals and vitamins is known to have a detrimental effect on the skin.

Most incidences of dry itchy skin will respond positively if you follow these simple guidelines. Even if the condition does not improve, you can be happy that you will have benefited in other ways

It is important to note that incidences of dry, itchy, flaky or scaly skin may be indicative of other medical conditions, some of which may be serious. You should visit your doctor if your symptoms are prolonged or extensive.