DRY SKIN
There are many causes for dryness and itchiness of the skin. Sometimes the two symptoms occur at the same time; at other times the symptoms occur separately. The skin may become itchy quite suddenly as part of another illness, such as allergic reaction to drugs. Skin may become gradually itchy due to certain ailments of the kidneys or liver. Some people who have had psoriasis (a patchy, scaling, itchy condition of the skin) during their younger years continue to be bothered by this skin condition into their later years.
The most common cause of dryness of the skin and associated itchiness is a gradual loss of the natural oils that normally lubricate it. As you age, your skin loses some of its natural lubricants. Each time soap and water are applied to the skin, the skin’s oils may be further reduced. Decreasing the frequency of bathing may lead to some improvement, but many people enjoy their daily shower or bath.
The use of oil-based moisturing soaps, oil additives that can be put in the bath water, and moisturizing skin lotions may help return oils to your skin and decrease their loss. If you put such products in your bath water, take proper precautions to prevent slipping when you leave the bath or shower. It is probably preferable to use products that are applied after, rather than during, the shower or bath. Some moisturizers contain sunscreens as well and may be useful after a morning bath or shower to give protection if you are going out into the sun. The use of a room humidifier during the winter months may also decrease the tendency to skin dryness.
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