Test Your Knowledge

Dry, rough skin may be accompanied by many other symptoms, such as:

• Skin tightness or tautness
• Loss of skin turgor
• Itching (pruritus)
• Flaking, peeling or scaling
• Fine lines or cracks
• Redness and inflammation
• Deep fissures that may bleed
• Increased thirst
• Dry hair

Patients should consult their physician if over-the-counter moisturizers fail to relieve these symptoms.

Redness, swelling, pain or warmth may indicate that a patient has developed a secondary infection from scratching their dry skin. Fluid may also ooze from infected skin. Individuals who suspect an infection should contact their physician immediately. They may require topical and/or oral antibiotics to treat the infection.