Why is the skin dry and itchy?
Sep 10, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, dry and itchy skin may be caused by factors such as seasonal changes, aging, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, or ichthyosis, and it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, using appropriate skincare products, avoiding excessively hot bath water, performing regular skin care, and adequately hydrating can help relieve dryness and itching, maintaining healthy skin.
Skin dryness and itching are generally caused by factors such as seasonal changes, aging, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, or ichthyosis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and identify the underlying cause under the guidance of a qualified physician before initiating treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Seasonal Changes
In cold, dry winter air, moisture on the skin's surface may evaporate more quickly, compromising the skin's barrier function. This leads to water loss, thickening of the stratum corneum, and sensations of dryness and itchiness. Using appropriate skincare products and avoiding excessively hot bath water in daily life can help alleviate symptoms of dry, itchy skin.
2. Aging
As people age, natural moisturizing factors and sebum production in the skin decrease, weakening the skin's barrier function and its ability to retain moisture. This often results in dry, itchy skin. Regular skincare routines can help reduce these symptoms.
3. Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a skin inflammatory reaction triggered by contact with allergens. These substances stimulate the skin and induce the release of inflammatory mediators such as histamine, leading to dryness and itching. Patients may also experience symptoms like erythema and papules. Under medical supervision, treatments may include calamine lotion, loratadine tablets, and tacrolimus ointment.
4. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder characterized by abnormal skin cell metabolism, resulting in thickened stratum corneum and scaling, which causes dryness and itching. Common accompanying symptoms include skin erythema and scales. Treatment should follow medical advice and may involve medications such as tretinoin cream, acitretin capsules, and compound glycyrrhizin tablets.
5. Ichthyosis
Ichthyosis is a genetic skin disorder in which abnormal keratinocyte metabolism leads to thickening of the stratum corneum and increased water loss, thereby causing dry, itchy skin. Under a doctor’s guidance, treatments may include urea ointment, isotretinoin soft capsules, and roxithromycin dispersible tablets.
In daily life, selecting skincare products suitable for one's skin type and maintaining adequate hydration can help relieve skin dryness and itching, promoting overall skin health.
