What causes hardened and itchy skin on the lower leg, and what should be done about it?

A patch of hardened, itchy skin on the lower leg may result from dryness, friction, eczema, neurodermatitis, or contact dermatitis. Symptoms can be improved through moisturizing care, minimizing irritation, and medical treatment. If the hardened area expands, itching worsens, or is accompanied by flaking, redness, or swelling, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Dry skin: In dry climates or when fluid intake is insufficient, the skin on the lower legs loses moisture, causing thickening and hardening of the stratum corneum and resulting in itching. It is advised to cleanse daily with lukewarm water and apply a moisturizing lotion to maintain skin hydration, along with increasing water intake to replenish bodily fluids.

2. Friction irritation: Wearing tight, non-breathable clothing over long periods or frequently rubbing the skin on the lower leg can lead to excessive keratinization, causing the skin to thicken and become itchy. It is recommended to switch to loose, breathable cotton clothing, avoid repeated mechanical stress on the affected area, and minimize scratching.

3. Eczema: Skin inflammation triggered by various internal and external factors can cause localized skin thickening and hardening with a moss-like appearance, accompanied by intense itching. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as desonide cream, loratadine tablets, or calamine lotion to relieve symptoms.

4. Neurodermatitis: Stress or local irritation may disrupt skin nerve function, leading to thickened, hardened skin and severe itching, which worsens with scratching. Under a doctor’s supervision, treatments such as halometasone cream, cetirizine tablets, and vitamin B1 tablets may be used to alleviate symptoms.

5. Contact dermatitis: Exposure to allergens or irritants such as metals or cosmetics triggers skin inflammation, causing the affected skin to harden, redden, and itch. As directed by a physician, medications like hydrocortisone butyrate cream, ebastine tablets, or boric acid solution may help relieve discomfort.

Maintain gentle and clean hygiene for the lower legs, wear loose and breathable clothing, avoid suspected allergens, follow a light diet rich in fruits and vegetables, refrain from scratching when itchy, and consistently practice moisturizing care to support skin barrier recovery.