INTRODUCTION Medically known as Xeroderma, asteatosis, Xerosis cutis or dry skin, is a very common and harmless skin condition marked by an inappropriate amount of moisture and oil content in the epidermis resulting from inadequate hydrolipids in the skin. Dry skin has low level of sebum & can be prone to sensitivity . It usually feels “tight” & uncomfortable after washing unless some type of moisturizer or skin cream is applied.
EPIDEMOLOGY As per the results of a large scale survey conducted across India in 2020, about 11.4 percent of the respondents suffered from dry skin out of 11,000 respondents (Published by A. Minhas, Jul 12, 2023). Although the precise incidence of xeroderma remains unknown, xeroderma is a common condition affecting individuals of all age groups—both males and females.Research has shown a greater prevalence of xeroderma in older patients, especially in individuals 60 or older. Furthermore, xeroderma is frequently observed in individuals with underlying medical conditions, including diabetes mellitus, renal failure, and hypothyroidism, or those taking specific medications.
Redness SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS Itching Psoriatic Eczema Cracking Flaking
CAUSES OF DRY SKIN A. External causes 1. Skin cleansing : Repeated and lengthy hot showers and the use of harsh, alkaline soaps. 2. Environmental factors: Exposure to cold weather, low humidity, dry indoor heating, and intense sunlight. 3. Occupational factors: Contact with irritant agents, such as chemicals used in hairdressing or housekeeping. B. Internal causes 1. Dermatological causes: Inflammatory skin disorders: Atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, irritant contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and psoriasis. Chronic-phase infectious skin conditions: Scabies, bacterial, or fungal infections. Genodermatoses: Xeroderma pigmentosum and ichthyoses. Neoplasms: Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.
B. Internal causes continues... 2. Dietary causes Malnutrition: Dietary causes such as deficiencies of Vitamin A, Vitamin D, zinc and iron can also cause dry skin. Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake and excessive perspiration can also cause dry skin. 3. Drug-related causes Retinoids, topical corticosteroids (prolonged use), diuretics, lipid-lowering agents, calcium antagonists, beta blockers, antirheumatic drugs, contraceptives/ antiandrogens, cytostatic agents, radiation dermatitis (following radiation therapy), immunomodulators can also make the skin dry. 4. Psychiatric diseases Obsessive-compulsive disorders: Excessive skin washing. Eating disorders: Anorexia. Addictions: Alcohol or drug abuse.
DIAGNOSIS The diagnosis of xeroderma primarily relies on clinical assessment, with a comprehensive history and physical examination adequate to identify this prevalent condition. In rare instances, a skin biopsy may be warranted to differentiate xeroderma from conditions that mimic its presentation. To categorize the degree of xerosis, a grading system based on specific criteria has been established, as mentioned below. Mild: Scaling confined to skin furrows. Moderate: Scaling extending beyond skin furrows with distinct skin markings. Severe: Plate-like scaling extending beyond skin furrows and accompanied by the development of deep skin fissures.
TREATMENT/ MANAGEMENT The treatment of xeroderma should prioritize restoring physiological lipids in the epidermis, improving skin hydration, optimizing skin barrier function, and promoting epidermal differentiation. Infrequent bathing and using lukewarm water Gentle cleansers: Because of their acidic pH, which closely matches the skin's natural pH. Syndet cleansers have been observed to reduce pruritus due to their lower pH levels.Traditional soaps should be avoided. Skin moisturizers: Routine application of oil-based creams is advisable due to their thicker consistency, which is more effective at moisturizing the skin than water-based lotions.
4. Room humidifiers: Room humidifiers are particularly beneficial during winter as they help retain the skin's moisture. 5. Hydration: Individuals dealing with xeroderma should stay hydrated by consuming adequate fluids. Moisturisation . Occlusion Humectancy -A water-impermeable barrier is applied to the skin's surface, creating an environment that supports barrier repair. -Eg: petrolatum -Function like sponges, drawing and retaining water within the skin. Within the dermis, glycosaminoglycans, including hyaluronic acid, serve as effective humectants. - Eg: glycerin, honey, sodium lactate, urea, and propylene glycol.
Various active ingredients with unique benefits are used in skincare products to improve skin texture and hydration, some of which are mentioned below. NAME DISCRIPTION Petrolatum Acts as an occlusive by forming an oily barrier that prevents water from evaporating. Silicone This is a non-greasy occlusive agent capable of filling gaps between desquamating corneocytes, resulting in smoother skin surfaces. (dimethicone and cyclomethicone) Ceramides Enhance intercellular lipids, thereby maintaining the natural skin barrier. Urea and lactic acid These ingredients reveal water-binding sites on corneocytes, thereby enhancing skin hydration. Due to their keratolytic properties, they hold particular significance, especially in addressing foot calluses. Dexpanthenol Precursor of vitamin B5 and supports wound healing by stimulating epithelization and fibroblast proliferation. As a result, it finds utility in conditions such as atopic dermatitis, diabetic foot care, diaper dermatitis, burn injuries, and skin grafts.
REFERENCES Gade, Anita, Taraneh Matin, and Richard Rubenstein. "Xeroderma." (2020).