What causes dry skin and what can I do about it?

ACS Answer

Dry skin can be rough, flaky, red, and sometimes painful. It is caused by lack of oil and water in the skin. Common causes of dry skin are dehydration, heat, cold, and side effects of radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

What to look for

• Red, rough, flaky skin    
• Slight bleeding between the lines of skin covering knuckles or elbows

What to do

• Add mineral or baby oil to warm bath water.    
• Apply water-based creams twice a day, especially after baths.    
• Drink 2-3 quarts of liquid a day with approval from your doctor.    
• Protect skin from cold and wind.

Do not

• Bathe in hot water; instead, use warm water.    
• Take more than 1 tub bath or shower a day.    
• Expose yourself to the cold and wind.

Call the doctor about any of the following symptoms

• If skin gets very rough, red, or painful
• If a skin rash develops
• If you itch a lot

Related Resources

More information on dry skin.

Find books that cover this and other cancer topics at the American Cancer Society bookstore.

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