J Korean Med Assoc.  2001 Nov;44(11):1196-1206. 10.5124/jkma.2001.44.11.1196.

Dry Skin

• Song HJ

• KMID: 2347842
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2001.44.11.1196

Abstract

Though there is ambiguity in its medical definition, dry skin is a frequent skin problem of increasing importance these days. Generally "dry skin" denotes the status of skin showing erythema, roughness, scales, and itching resulted from low water content in the skin. Abnormalities in epidermal lipids, natural moisturizing factors, or corneocyte desquamation are regarded as important factors in its pathophysiology. It is not only accompanied with skin aging, but with various kinds of skin and systemic diseases(such as atopic dermatitis, ichthyosis, chronic renal failure, and diabetes mellitus). Important principles in the management or treatment of dry skin are preventing excessive washing and keeping moisture in the epidermis. For gentle cleansing, mild surfactants are better than the soap. Moisturizers are applied to the surface of skin to increase epidermal water content. Two different kinds of moisturizers are used as a mixture for the best result. Humectants are the material that draw water from the air or dermis. And emollients are the material that protects membrane by preventing water from evaporating from the epidermis. Though moisturizers are very helpful in management of dry skin, harmful result may happen by inadequate selection and wrong use.

Keyword

dry skin; epidermal lipid; NMF; moisturizer

MeSH Terms

Dermatitis, Atopic
Dermis
Emollients
Epidermis
Erythema
Hygroscopic Agents
Ichthyosis
Kidney Failure, Chronic
Membranes
Pruritus
Skin Aging
Skin*
Soaps
Surface-Active Agents
Water
Weights and Measures
Emollients
Hygroscopic Agents
Soaps
Surface-Active Agents
Water