Dry Patches on the skin and how to get rid of them?

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Noticing dry skin patches on your skin? It isn’t something unusual and affects a majority of people. Though, there are reasons behind its appearance on your skin. However, you can also get rid of them. Keep reading to know more. 

What are Dry Patches on the Skin?

Dry skin patches aren’t the ones where you experience overall dryness in your skin. In this case, you may notice scaly and rough dry skin patches in certain areas. 

Where Do Dry Skin Patches Appear? 

Though, they can come up anywhere in your body but the most common areas where they appear are: 

  • Hands or wrists
  • Feet or ankles
  • Elbows
  • Chest
  • Lower arms
  • Knees or lower legs
  • Face

What Causes Dry Patches on the Skin?

Dry skin patches can occur due to varied reasons like daily routine activities, skin conditions, diet and skincare products. We’ll discuss some of them here. 

Eczema Can Lead to Dry Skin Patches  

It leads to reddish-brown itchy patches on areas in your body such as hands, face, neck, ankle and upper chest. If you scratch them, these patches may scratch over. 

Psoriasis

It is a common autoimmune disorder that makes skin cells multiply too quickly. Those suffering from the condition may have itchy and scaly patches on their skin. It can appear on the face, scalp, knees, elbows etc. 

Dry Patches on the Skin Due to Dry Air 

At times, dry skin patches can develop because of dry, cool air that takes away moisture from your skin. Whereas in summers, extreme humidity levels may not cause dryness but excess exposure to sun can lead to dry skin patches. 

Nutritional Deficiency 

If your body lacks vitamin E, D or calcium, it may cause dry skin patches. 

Using Harsh Skincare Products 

You can experience this skin condition due to using products with harsh ingredients that can lead to dry patches on your skin.

How Can You Get Rid of Dry Patches on the Skin?

Prescription-Based Medications

Your doctor based on your condition can recommend medications like antibiotics, topical antiseptics, antihistamines and certain steroids. 

Stay Hydrated 

In any kind of weather, be it winter or summer, make sure that you drink an ample amount of water. 

Always Keep your Skin Moisturised

Remember to moisturise your skin regularly to keep your skin soft and supple. You must moisturize your skin constantly, which means you moisturize after you bathe, when you wash your face or hands, even when you go to bed at night. Do not allow your skin to feel dry for a long time.

Limit Bath Time & Usage of Hot Water

Avoid bathing for long stretches of time and especially with hot water as these can aggravate dryness in your skin. 

Natural Remedies For Dry Skin Patches

Milk

It can be used to keep your skin moisturised and soft. It also agrees for all skin types whether it may be dry skin or oily skin.  Lactic acid is a natural moisturiser. It also helps in removing dead skin cells as well, without drying out the skin.

Aloe Vera

The best way to use aloe vera is straight from the plant itself. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes and then wash it off.

Few More Tips That Can be Useful are As Follows

  • Avoid rubbing or scratching your skin. 
  • Invest in a good humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home. 
  • Try to cover yourself up regardless of the weather. 

Summing Up 

Dry skin patches can occur due to various factors such as skin conditions, lifestyle, diet and everyday habits. However with proper care, lifestyle changes and medication you can manage the condition. For any queries or concerns related to the condition, speak to your dermatologist. 

Disclaimer

The natural remedies mentioned in the blog are the widely popular ones. It is in no way a substitute for medical advice, treatment or diagnosis. Avoid using these if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies. 

Before trying any natural remedy, always test a small quantity on your skin to check for any adverse reactions or allergy to any particular ingredient. In case of emergency or any reaction, immediately connect with a doctor who can offer the right treatment.

FAQs

1. Can stress lead to red spots on skin?

Yes, stress can cause red spots on your skin known as hives. These rashes can appear as tiny dots or large welts on your face, arms and chest etc. 

2. Is Vaseline good for your skin?

Petroleum jelly is good to overcome dryness in your skin. 

3. Which lotion is best to get rid of dry skin?

For dry or extremely dry skin, opt for a rich or oil-based cream/lotion. You can also consult your doctor to suggest skincare products for your skin type. 

4. Is it okay to scratch off a seborrheic keratosis?

Avoid scratching, rubbing or picking seborrheic keratosis because it can cause bleeding, pain and itching. 

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Author

Picture of Dr Jisha Gomez

Dr Jisha Gomez

She is a highly skilled dermatology physician with strong expertise in improving skin & hair health through the development of corrective treatment combinations. She completed her Post-graduate Diploma in Dermatology from Cardiff, UK & Fellowship in Aesthetic Medicine (FAM) from the Institute of Laser and Aesthetic Medicine, Delhi with over 5+ years experience treating skin patients. She has worked in Government hospitals in Trivandrum and Bangalore. She is actively involved in creating awareness for healthy skin, breaking the social stigma based on skin colour & stopping steroid abuse in our country.