Xeroderma Information
Xeroderma
(from the Greek words for "dry skin"), a common condition often leading to
winter itch, occurs when moisture levels in the outer layer of the skin are low.
Moisturizers and emollients are frequently uses as a palliative treatment.
Xeroderma is most common on the lower legs and thighs, the abdomen, arms and
scalp. Itching, scaling and peeling of the outer skin layer, and cracks in the
skin are symptoms.
Common Causes of Xeroderma
Like winter itch, xeroderma is a very common condition. It happens most often in
the winter months (both northern and southern hemispheres) because cold air
contains only a small amount of moisture, and when heated has a low relative
humidity. This low relative humidity causes the skin to lose moisture, which
leads to itching, cracking and peeling. Xeroderma is made worse by frequent
bathing or showering, particularly if harsh soaps are used.
A variety of other factors can also cause xeroderma and winter itch, including a
deficiency of vitamin A, vitamin D, some illnesses, extreme overexposure or
underexposure to sunlight, and some medications.
Conclusion
Effective treatments do exist for winter itch.