What causes skin to look like it's rusted?
Nov 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, skin that appears rusty may be caused by dryness, prolonged sun exposure, or conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and melasma. If this occurs, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly to determine the underlying cause. Dry skin: Dry air, excessive cleansing, or aging can lead to loss of skin moisture, thickening of the stratum corneum, and dull, rust-like discoloration.
Under normal circumstances, skin resembling rust may be caused by dryness, prolonged sun exposure, or conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and melasma. If this occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Skin Dryness: Dry air, excessive cleansing, or aging can lead to moisture loss in the skin, thickening of the stratum corneum, and dull, rust-like discoloration. Dehydration disrupts the arrangement of keratinocytes, causing uneven light reflection. Using gentle moisturizing skincare products while avoiding over-cleansing and irritating ingredients can improve the condition.
2. Prolonged Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation stimulates melanocytes, leading to excessive melanin deposition and darkened skin tone. UVA and UVB rays in sunlight activate tyrosinase, promoting melanin synthesis. Practicing sun protection—such as applying sunscreen and wearing sun hats—when outdoors helps reduce damage and prevent further darkening.
3. Eczema: Triggered by genetic and environmental factors, eczema presents with red patches, papules, and blisters, accompanied by intense itching. With repeated flare-ups, the skin becomes rough, thickened, and darker due to inflammation-induced pigmentation. Under medical guidance, topical treatments such as mometasone furoate cream, halometasone cream, or tacrolimus ointment can help relieve symptoms and reduce hyperpigmentation.
4. Psoriasis: An interaction of immune, genetic, and environmental factors causes excessive proliferation of keratinocytes, resulting in altered skin color at affected sites. Abnormal skin metabolism accelerates keratinocyte turnover. Avoiding triggers and using medications like calcipotriol ointment, tretinoin cream, or dithranol ointment under professional supervision can help control the disease.
5. Melasma: Hormonal imbalances, UV exposure, and genetics can increase melanocyte activity, producing excess melanin that forms tan-brown patches on the face. Sun protection, emotional well-being, and dermatologist-recommended treatments such as hydroquinone cream, azelaic acid cream, or vitamin E emulsion may help fade pigmentation.
Routine skin care and sun protection, a balanced diet, regular sleep patterns, and periodic skin examinations are essential for maintaining healthy skin.
