Xeroderma (synonyms: Asteatosis; Asteatosis cutis; Skin xerosis; Dry dermatosis; Xeroderma; Xerosis cutis; ICD-10 L85.3: Xerosis cutis incl. Xeroderma), that is, dry skin, is usually due to a lack of oil in the skin caused by decreased sebum production (sebostasis).
Dry skin particularly affects older people, neurodermatitis sufferers and small children.
Seasonal accumulation of the disease: Dry skin occurs more frequently in winter.
Gender ratio: Women are more prone to dry skin than men.
Frequency peak: The disease/symptom occurs more frequently from the second half of life.
No figures are available on the prevalence of xeroderma.
Course and prognosis: Dry skin often does not lead to symptoms in the first decades of life. Some patients only notice increased trickling skin flakes without the appearance of further symptoms. From the second half of life, increasing exsiccation (dehydration) leads to an unpleasant feeling of tightness of the skin. Excessive personal hygiene (washing and bathing) and thus the excessive use of soaps or shower products contributes to dehydration of the entire skin. Typically, dehydration often worsens in winter or during the cold season, often accompanied by pruritus (itching).Dry skin can be treated well. Modification of showering and bathing habits as well as re-fatting of the skin with suitable base creams or oil baths are helpful. Prognosis is good as long as body and skin care recommendations are followed.
