As winter sets in, many people, especially elderly people, notice their skin becoming very dry, rough, itchy and cracked, most often on the legs, arms and hands. This condition is called xerotic dermatitis (also known as asteatotic eczema or “winter itch”). In this video, Dr. Dipak Viradia explains why it happens and how to care for your skin.

What is xerotic dermatitis? When the skin loses too much moisture, its protective outer layer breaks down. The skin becomes dry, scaly and inflamed, and may develop fine cracks that look like a “crazy paving” or dry riverbed pattern. It is not an infection and does not spread to others.

Common symptoms:

• Very dry, rough or scaly skin
• Itching, often worse at night
• Fine cracks, redness or a burning sensation
• Most common on the shins, arms, hands and back

Who is at higher risk?

• Elderly people, whose skin naturally produces less oil
• People who bathe often in hot water or use harsh soaps
• People with diabetes, thyroid problems or kidney disease
• Those with a history of eczema or allergy
• Cold, dry weather and long hours in air-conditioning

How to care for your skin:

1. Bathe in lukewarm water, not hot. Keep baths short, about 5–10 minutes.
2. Use a mild, soap-free cleanser. Avoid harsh, strongly scented or antibacterial soaps, and don’t scrub the skin.
3. Moisturise within 3 minutes of bathing. Gently pat the skin dry and apply a thick, fragrance-free moisturiser or emollient while the skin is still slightly damp. This locks in moisture.
4. Moisturise again at bedtime, and whenever the skin feels dry.
5. Avoid scratching. It damages the skin further and can cause infection. Keep nails short.
6. Wear soft cotton clothes. Wool and rough fabrics can irritate dry skin.
7. Drink enough water and keep indoor air from becoming too dry.

Treatment. Regular moisturising is the foundation of treatment. When the skin is inflamed and very itchy, a doctor may prescribe a medicated cream for a short period. Use steroid or medicated creams only when prescribed, and in the dose and duration advised. Avoid applying creams bought over the counter without advice.

See a doctor if:

• Itching is severe or disturbs sleep
• The skin is bleeding, oozing, swollen or showing signs of infection
• Dryness doesn’t improve with regular moisturising
• The rash spreads, or the itching happens all over the body without visible dryness, which can sometimes signal an underlying health problem

Dr. Dipak Viradia
Chest Physician & Intensivist | Interventional Pulmonologist & ECMO Specialist
Rudrax Chest Clinic, 301, Solaris Royce, Opp. Old RTO, Athwagate, Ring Road, Surat – 395001
Appointment: +91 75676 19985
Website: www.drdipakviradia.com