Why Dry Skin Rashes Develop

Irritants, allergies, insects, ailments, and genes can each be to blame for a pesky skin rash. Sometimes, though, the cause for uncomfortable, scaly skin is simple; it’s a dry skin rash. Several factors can lead to skin that’s so dry it develops a rash. If it’s winter, you can blame cold temperatures for your dry skin rash, which is sometimes referred to as xerosis. The low humidity of a cold winter climate can leave skin overly dry and vulnerable to developing this itchy skin rash. Excessive contact with water can also cause your skin to become deprived of its protective oils, which don’t get a chance to regenerate before further contact with water. Showering or bathing several times a day may lead to a dry skin rash. Dry skin rashes also can form as a result of the aging process. As we get older, our skin produces less oil, leaving it less moist and more prone to excessive dryness. In some cases, dry skin can indicate a thyroid imbalance. A dry skin rash develops when skin in need of moisture becomes itchy. Scratching and rubbing the irritated area makes skin red, and can cause it to become thick and rough. Over time, skin may become cracked and painful. If left unchecked, a dry skin rash can develop into dermatitis, produce scaly patches, or even become infected. If your dry skin rash is weeping, you should seek medical attention, as it may indicate a bacterial infection, which will need to be treated with antibiotics. The best way to deal with a less severe dry skin rash is to properly moisturize your skin. This doesn’t just mean getting wet, as water alone will make your problem worse. Instead, get into the habit of moisturizing immediately after a bath. Your skin is most receptive to moisture after bathing or showering. Also, moisturizing right away means your skin won’t have a chance to dry out after being exposed to water. Avoiding very long, very hot baths and showers will also save your skin’s natural moisture. You may also want to switch to a milder soap, as harsh cleansers can strip the skin’s oils away.