This image displays a mild rash due to itching caused by dry skin. This image displays cracks due to dry skin. This image displays a dry, scaly rash due to itching from xerosis (dry skin). This image displays an extreme case of xerosis (dry skin). This image displays cracks in the skin due to xerosis (dry skin) that have collected dirt. This image displays very dry skin on the hands typical to xerosis.
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Dry Skin (Xerosis)  Information for adults

Picture of Dry Skin (Xerosis): This image displays a mild rash due to itching caused by dry skin. Divider line
This image displays a mild rash due to itching caused by dry skin.
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Overview
Dry skin (xerosis) is a condition of rough, dry skin with fine scaling of skin and, occasionally, with small cracks in the skin. Dry skin is also known as winter itch or asteatosis.

Often itchy, dry skin is caused by environmental factors, such as cold weather and frequent bathing, and by medical conditions, such as atopic dermatitis and malnutrition. Dry skin develops due to a decrease in the natural oils in the outer layer of skin, which makes the skin lose water.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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