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Medical Author:

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Dr. Cole is board certified in dermatology. He obtained his BA degree in bacteriology, his MA degree in microbiology, and his MD at the University of California, Los Angeles. He trained in dermatology at the University of Oregon, where he completed his residency.

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Medical Editor:

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

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In this Article

• Dry skin facts
• What is dry skin?
• What causes dry skin?
• What are signs and symptoms of dry skin?
• How is dry skin diagnosed?
• Does dry skin cause winter itch?
• Do genetics play a role in dry skin?
• What medical conditions cause dry skin?
• Do any medications cause dry skin?
• What is the treatment for dry skin?
• What are possible complications of dry skin?
• What are some home remedies for dry skin?
• How can dry skin be prevented?
• What are the best products for dry skin?
• Dry Skin FAQs
• Find a local Dermatologist in your town
• Dry Skin Index

Winter itch is a common name for the skin symptom of generalized itching in the winter. It is primarily caused by dry skin and is most common in the elderly. Winter itch caused by dry skin may also be seen commonly in those with a history of eczema, allergies, or asthma. External factors, including cold temperatures, low humidity, and the use of central heat, tend to worsen dry skin during the winter season. Therefore, some people refer the condition of dry skin in the winter as "winter itch."

Dry skin may be caused by a genetic condition called ichthyosis. There are many types of ichthyosis. Ichthyosis vulgaris is the most common type and it is a severe dry skin condition, often of the front of the lower legs. Ichthyosis vulgaris causes dry, fishlike scales. Less severe types of dry skin may tend to run in families. Dry skin is also more common in atopic dermatitis, which is thought to have a genetic component.

Certain physiological changes and medical conditions may cause dry skin. The onset of dry skin may be due to aging or hormonal changes, as seen in menopausal women. In some cases, individuals who have medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, or malnutrition (for example, deficiency of vitamin A) may suffer from xerosis.

The following medical conditions may cause dry skin:

• Hypothyroidism
• Hyperthyroidism
• Diabetes
• Malnutrition
• Atopic dermatitis

Medications for medical conditions like high blood pressure (such as diuretics), cholesterol-lowering drugs, and acne (such as retinoids like Retin A) may also dry out the skin.