No matter what time of year it is, your skin will experience dryness from the environment and from intrinsic factors like genetics, hormones, and climate. The harsh conditions of winter exacerbate this dryness by sealing in moisture and sealing out humidity. Add to that the daily friction of wearing wool clothes or synthetic fabrics, which rub against your dry skin. You end up with a combination of dryness and irritation called a dry skin rash. These types of rashes are common in people who have dry skin but they can also be brought on by some factors such as underlying allergies or sensitivity to detergents. With its high concentration of oil glands, an oily type of sebum known as sebaceous secretions is produced in a person’s skin in response to environmental factors and internal hormonal fluctuations. When the production of this sebum is inhibited due to conditions like dryness or irritation due to something external like clothing or soap residue, the natural oils produced by the dermal layer increase exponentially leading to the appearance of a rough, flaky buildup known as dandruff. A similar effect occurs within our epidermis and results in eczema as well as an oily pimple known as a papule or pustule (which is essentially an acne lesion).
## What is a Drying Skin Rash?
Dry skin is the result of having relatively low levels of oil in your skin. This may be due to genetics, hormones, or certain medications; in any case, it means that your skin is more susceptible to the negative effects of the elements in your environment, such as wind and heat. These causes and effects make dry skin more prone to acquiring a rash. Increased friction against your skin, typically experienced by those with dry skin, such as wearing wool or synthetic fabrics, can cause a rash to develop. Rashes, whether they are caused by dry skin or are just exacerbated by it, can cause intense itching and redness, especially in areas of friction, like the elbows and knees.
A dry skin rash, also known as a xerotic or atrophic, or dry, or scaly rash, is a type of skin rash characterized by dry, scaly skin that often becomes red and irritated. Dry skin rashes are less likely to be associated with a bacterial infection than with a condition like eczema or psoriasis.
Conditions that cause dry skin are the most likely to result in a rash. However, a rash can also occur due to a number of other factors. Stress, hot showers and baths, trying to shave your legs too soon after washing them, or an allergic reaction to certain detergents can cause a rash on your legs or arms. Certain medications, like steroids, can also cause a rash to develop.
## How to soothe a drying skin rash
Exfoliating – Many people find that if they use an exfoliating scrub on their dry skin that it soothes their rash and helps to remove any buildup of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. Make sure to wash your face after exfoliating your face to remove any traces of scrub that may be irritating your eyes. Scrubs that contain Salicylic Acid or witch hazel are great at removing buildup of buildup of dead skin cells and are well tolerated by people with sensitive skin.
Boosting Moisturizing – If your rash is associated with dry skin, it may be helpful to apply a moisturizing lotion to your skin. Make sure to avoid moisturizing your face as it can make your eyes very itchy. Additionally, any moisturizing creams with mineral oil in them will only make your skin even drier.
## Things That Cause Dry Skin
– Sunburn – Too much sun exposure can cause your skin to become very dry and even damage your epidermis.
– Dry Air – If you live in a dry climate, you are likely to experience dry skin. If you live in a humid climate, you can experience dry skin as a result of the air becoming too dry.
– Dehydration – When you are dehydrated, your skin can become very dry. When your skin is very dry, it can result in a rash. It can also cause damage to your skin, as it may become chapped and even blister.
## Steps to Treating Dry Skin
– Moisturize – Make sure to moisturize your skin daily.
– Exfoliate – Exfoliating your skin daily with a mild scrub removes any buildup of dead skin cells and helps to improve overall texture of your skin.
– Use a Sunscreen – In addition to moisturizing your skin properly, using a daily sunscreen helps to protect against any damage caused by the sun.
– Wear Moist Clothing – Make sure to wear socks and pants that are designed to be breathable and not too thick and heavy. These types of clothes trap moisture in the fabric, making your dry skin even drier.
## Tips for moisturizing dry skin
– Look for an ingredient that is water-soluble, like glycerin or aloe. Water-soluble ingredients can easily be absorbed by the skin, unlike oils that sit on the surface.
– Use your hands to apply the moisturizing cream to your skin rather than a stick or sponge.
– Apply a moisturizing cream to your skin each night and morning.
– Use a cream that is lightweight and non-greasy.
– Use a cream that is fragrance-free, as these can be irritating to your skin.
## Conclusion
Dry skin can be an uncomfortable experience and is more likely to result in a rash. The best way to prevent it is to moisturize your skin and avoid exposing it to the elements. If you do get a rash, it is best to treat it with aloe Vera, calendula, and cayenne. These ingredients have been shown to work for soothing dry skin. Make sure to drink plenty of water, apply aloe Vera to your skin and keep your skin clean.
