Skip to Content

Xerosis

Definition

Xerosis is an abnormal dryness of the skin or mucus membranes.

Alternative Names

Asteatotic eczema; Eczema craquele

Causes

Dry skin usually gets worse during the winter.

Older people are usually affected more by this condition.

Symptoms

The skin is dry, scaly, itchy, and red. Fine cracks may appear on the skin.

The arms and legs are usually affected most.

Treatment

Treatments include:

  • Moisturizers, especially those that contain urea and lactic acid
  • Topical steroids -- for areas that get very inflamed and itchy

Prevention

  • Avoid excess exposure to water
  • Keep the bath water relatively cool
  • Use gentle skin cleansers that do not contain dyes and fragrances
Review Date: 10/11/2008
Reviewed By: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website, and its associated websites, is provided as a benefit to the local community, and the Internet community in general; it does not constitute medical advice. We try to provide quality information, but we make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to this website and its associated sites. As medical advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each patient and healthcare is constantly changing, nothing provided herein should be used as a substitute for the advice of a competent physician. Furthermore, in providing this service, Adventist HealthCare does not condone or support all of the content covered in this site. As an Adventist health care organization, Adventist HealthCare acts in accordance with the ethical and religious directives for Adventist health care services.

Adventist HealthCare · 301-315-3030 · 1801 Research BLVD, Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20850

Submit an Online Information Request