Xerosis Cutis

Skin is that one organ of the body which is extremely vital but is not taken very seriously.

Besides being the largest covering organ, it is also a protective organ that is primarily responsible for a healthy immune system (by protecting from external factors, like pathogens), regulation of body temperature, storing lipids and water in tissues (energy reserves), and absorption of oxygen into the body.

The different sensations that we experience is because of this outer covering. However, when it becomes parched and cracked, it indicates that something is not right within the body.

Xerosis cutis, also known as xerodermia or xeroderma, is associated with symptoms, like visible peeling, cracking, and itching on the skin. This condition involves the integumentary system which comprises the skin and its appendages. The system also includes hair, nails, hooves, etc.

This organ system protects the body from all sorts of damage, such as abrasion or loss of water. "Xero" itself means dry or dehydrated and "osis" means medical disorder. This medical condition is generally seen on the scalp, knuckles, arms, thighs, lower legs and abdomen.

This condition usually occurs when there is a significant reduction in the water content of the skin tissue (epidermal layers). A person suffering from dry skin may be afflicted due to the reasons below:

• Dehydration
• Atopic dermatitis
• Irritant contact dermatitis
• Ichthyosis (genetic skin disorder that leads to parched, thickened, flaky skin)
• Diabetes
• Renal diseases

• Neurological disorders (with decreased sweating)
• Obstructive biliary diseases
• Sjogren's syndrome
• Severe deficiency of vitamin A, zinc, and essential fatty acids
• Aging (because of reduced activity in sebaceous and sweat glands, and decreased levels of sterol esters and triglycerides)

Besides the medical reasons that are responsible for xeroderma, there are some other factors also which can lead to drying of this outer covering.

• Environmental factors like pollution, cold weather, and exposure to sun for a prolonged period of time are the probable causes.

• Personal hygiene is also important. However, taking a bath with extremely hot water and scrubbing with non-moisturizing soaps many times a day will not do any good. It will just lead to skin dehydration.
• Vigorous towel-drying is also a key reason for this disorder.

Are you aware of the fact that each time you wash yourself, the lipid layer of the skin is washed off, thereby resulting in moisture loss? That is why it's essential to moisturize the skin, with creams and lotions, after a bath on a daily basis.

Xerodermia does not manifest overnight. The early signs can be detected with a reddish tinge on the skin. Gradually, it starts developing cracks which slowly widen and accentuate the skin lines, forming deep fissures. If the fissures penetrate till the dermal capillaries, then it starts bleeding. This condition leads to pruritus (the sensation of intense itching) which becomes severe as it leads to open wounds. This makes the person highly susceptible to infections.

Treatment of xerosis cutis aims at restoring the oil and water balance of the skin.

• Take a bath once a day and preferably with lukewarm water and moisturizing soaps. Remember to apply body oil or creams after bathing. 

Some best recommended natural moisturizers are olive oil, vitamin E oil, jojoba oil, and almond oil.

• In winters, after indulging in water activities, wash yourself without using a soap.

• Alpha hydroxy acid lotions, such as NeoStrata Lotion Plus AHA 15 are effective in treating this disorder.
• Last but not the least, a healthy diet with sufficient zinc supplements, fresh fruit juices and vegetables, and a requisite amount of water must be consumed on a daily basis. This will help in keeping the tissues replenished.

• Exercising regularly helps in expelling huge amounts of sweat from the body. This keeps the skin absolutely tight and clean.

Skin is definitely an organ of primary importance, and taking good care of it is extremely vital. Drink at least 8 pints of water everyday to keep the body hydrated, healthy, and fit.

Disclaimer: This Health Story is for informative purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.