Xerosis

Xerosis. The accentuation of skin markings and fine scale illustrated here are typical of xerosis. The tendency toward dry skin tends to be inherited and is more common in families with a history of atopy. Low humidity, usually related to dry heat during the winter months, is an aggravating factor. Treatment of xerosis is aimed at rehydrating the stratum corneum. Emollients containing urea or alpha-hydroxy acids are particularly effective. Excessive bathing and the use of alkaline soaps must be avoided.

Color Atlas of Pediatric Dermatology Samuel Weinberg, Neil S. Prose, Leonard Kristal Copyright 2008, 1998, 1990, 1975, by the McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.