Dry skin

Signs and symptoms

• Feeling of pulling, especially after bathing.
• Fine, whitish flaking.
• Roughness and "spleen" appearance of the skin.
• Mild to moderate itch.
• Fine cracks in bending zones (hands, ankles).
• Mild redness in more affected areas.
• Increased sensitivity to soaps, fabrics and temperatures.

Common causes:

• Winter and dry air (inside and outside).
• Central heating and frequent use of air conditioning.
• Very hot or very long baths.
• Aggressive soaps and detergents.
• Skin aging — lipid production decreases with age.
• Individual predisposition (sometimes with genetic component).
• Skin disorders such as atopic dermatitis or ichthyosis.
• Nutritional deficits or endocrine changes in specific situations.

Daily Care That Makes a Difference

Most dry skin cases improve significantly with a simple and consistent routine:

• Generous daily hydration — right after the bath, with skin still slightly moist.
• Short baths (5-10 min) with warm water, not hot.
• Replace traditional soap with soft product without soap or alcohol.
• Dry the skin in soft touches — do not rub.
• Emollient adapted to the skin type — richer in winter.
• Soft clothing that does not sting; cotton in direct contact.
• Drink enough water and maintain a balanced diet.
• Humidifier in very dry interiors.

When to search for review

• Extensive dry skin that does not respond to appropriate care.
• An intense itch that disturbs sleep.
• Dry skin associated with recurrent eczemas.
• Painful or infected fissures.
• Recent change without obvious cause — especially in adults who have always had hydrated skin.
• Suspicion of associated skin disease (atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, ichthyosis).

Frequently asked questions