The skin on the arm flakes off in patches.

White flaking on the arms in patches may be caused by physiological factors, and symptoms usually improve after proper moisturization. However, it could also result from pathological conditions such as pityriasis alba or ichthyosis, which require appropriate medical treatment. Detailed analysis is as follows:

I. Physiological Factors

If the body is exposed to a dry environment or prolonged sunlight, the skin on the arms may become excessively dry, leading to peeling and the presence of white, flaky debris. Symptoms typically subside with adequate moisturizing care.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Pityriasis Alba

This is a chronic skin condition of unknown cause that damages the skin barrier, resulting in hypopigmented patches accompanied by fine, scaly white flakes. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as levocetirizine hydrochloride capsules, compound vitamin B tablets, and urea cream.

2. Ichthyosis

A common inherited keratinization disorder in clinical practice, ichthyosis causes poor nutrition of the skin tissue and severe atrophy of sweat glands, leading to white scaling on the arms. Treatment should follow medical guidance and may involve topical agents such as urea ointment, compound lactic acid cream, or salicylic acid ointment.

In addition to the above causes, this condition may also be triggered by neurodermatitis, psoriasis, vitiligo, or other factors. When discomfort occurs, individuals should promptly seek medical evaluation and receive appropriate treatment to promote recovery.