What is dry scaly skin?
Dry scaly skin is a type of rash that can signify any number of skin disorders. Scaly skin gets its name from its appearance—that is, a rough, raised patch of skin that, on close inspection, appears to be broken up
Dry scaly skin is a type of rash that can signify any number of skin disorders. Scaly skin gets its name from its appearance—that is, a rough, raised patch of skin that, on close inspection, appears to be broken up
into a network of flat, raised
“chips” of skin, as opposed to flakes, which are thin and fine. In some
cases, scaly skin resembles the scales on a fish, though not in such a
smooth or symmetrical pattern.
Skin Problems Spotlight
It can be easy to confuse scales with flakes, but scaly skin and flaky skin can be quite different symptoms. Dry scaly skin can be differentiated from flaky skin in that flaky skin is a shedding of thin, delicate pieces of dead, dried skin, which are so thin that they appear white and almost like a fine dusting of snow. In contrast, scales are thickened, raised areas that are rough and firm to the touch. Some forms of scaly skin have been compared to lichen.
Dry scaly skin has been associated with a number of disorders, including bacterial infections (for example, impetigo, staph infections, or erythrasma) and fungal infections (for example, tinea, also known as ringworm). It also is associated with skin disorders, including psoriasis, eczema, or atopic dermatitis, and with allergic reactions, such as reactions to poison oak or poison ivy. Cold, dry winter weather can also cause very dry skin (called xerosis), but this type of dry skin is unlikely to cause true scaling.
In itself, dry scaly skin is seldom dangerous, but you should see your health care provider to determine the cause. The underlying disorder causing your dry scaly skin may need treatment.
In very rare, severe allergic reactions, you may experience anaphylaxis, which is life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, develop difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, or rapid, marked swelling near the site of a reaction.
Seek prompt medical care if your dry scaly skin is persistent or causes you concern.
Use our products for all your skin needs!!
Skin Problems Spotlight
It can be easy to confuse scales with flakes, but scaly skin and flaky skin can be quite different symptoms. Dry scaly skin can be differentiated from flaky skin in that flaky skin is a shedding of thin, delicate pieces of dead, dried skin, which are so thin that they appear white and almost like a fine dusting of snow. In contrast, scales are thickened, raised areas that are rough and firm to the touch. Some forms of scaly skin have been compared to lichen.
Dry scaly skin has been associated with a number of disorders, including bacterial infections (for example, impetigo, staph infections, or erythrasma) and fungal infections (for example, tinea, also known as ringworm). It also is associated with skin disorders, including psoriasis, eczema, or atopic dermatitis, and with allergic reactions, such as reactions to poison oak or poison ivy. Cold, dry winter weather can also cause very dry skin (called xerosis), but this type of dry skin is unlikely to cause true scaling.
In itself, dry scaly skin is seldom dangerous, but you should see your health care provider to determine the cause. The underlying disorder causing your dry scaly skin may need treatment.
In very rare, severe allergic reactions, you may experience anaphylaxis, which is life threatening. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, develop difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, or rapid, marked swelling near the site of a reaction.
Seek prompt medical care if your dry scaly skin is persistent or causes you concern.
Use our products for all your skin needs!!
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