Conditions We Treat
Conditions Introduction
Acne
Dry Skin Conditions
Fungal Nail Infections
Non Melanoma Skin Cancer
Psoriasis
Rosacea
Acne
Dry Skin Conditions
Fungal Nail Infections
Non Melanoma Skin Cancer
Psoriasis
Rosacea
Our Products
Working For Galderma
Site Information
Dry Skin Conditions
What is Dry SkinDry skin results from lack of water in the outer layer of skin cells (stratum corneum). When this layer becomes dehydrated it loses its flexibility and becomes dry, cracked, scaly and sometimes itchy. The stratum corneum contains natural water holding substances, including urea, which retain the water seeping up from the deeper layers of the skin. Water is also normally retained in the stratum corneum by a surface film of sebum, which slows down the evaporation of water from the skin surface.
The skin dries out when too much water evaporates from the surface. This increases with age, and is made worse by excessive washing because hot water and soap can remove the layer of natural oil on the skin surface.
(Chronic Dry Skin can be present in some dermatological condtions including eczema, ichtyosis and hyperkeratosis)
How to manage Dry Skin ConditionsEmollients are the standard treatment for all dry and scaly skin conditions. They smooth, sooth and hydrate the skin. Emollients need to be applied frequently to be effective.
Not all emollients are the same. They contain a range of different ingredients, and some dry skin conditions respond better to some emollients than others.
What to expect
In the majority of cases, Dry skin conditions can be self-managed with help and support from your local pharmacist providing the following advice is taken up:- Avoid excessive bathing. Avoid harsh soaps, use gentle non-detergent skin washes. Allow skin to breath; wear breathable and less heavy fabrics. Use emollient washes. Ensure the central heating is not too hot or drying – use humidifiers or place bowls of water near to the radiators.
However, if the skin is weeping or bleeding, the condition seems to be getting worse or there are signs of infection or other underlying diseases such as diabetes please refer to your doctor.
The Galderma website is not intended to promote the use of Galderma products or to provide information on which to base medical treatment. Please consult a dermatologist or other healthcare provider for more information about your condition and the product that is right for you.
Online Resources
National Eczema Society: www.eczema.org (Pub)
British Association of Dermatologists: www.bad.org.uk (Prof)
Dry Skin UK: www.dryskin-uk.co.uk (Pub)
National Eczema Society: www.eczema.org (Pub)
British Association of Dermatologists: www.bad.org.uk (Prof)
Dry Skin UK: www.dryskin-uk.co.uk (Pub)
Key: Pub = Public Site, Prof = Professional Site
