About dry skin

Dry skin conditions are some of the most common ailments that affect the general UK population. They can cover a whole spectrum ranging from dry, itchy skin to eczema and can have a negative impact on a patient's quality of life.

Dry skin can occur as a result of water loss, reduced lipids in the skin, or both.

Dermatitis and eczema are terms used to describe inflammatory skin conditions — when the skin becomes inflamed, with itching and redness. There are different types, including atopic (thought to have a genetic link) and contact (response to an irritant).

Mild dry skin and mild irritant dermatitis (also known as contact dermatitis) have been identified as self-limiting conditions for which over-the-counter (OTC) products should not be routinely prescribed. As a result, pharmacists and pharmacy teams have an important role to play in guiding patients through the often challenging and confusing environment of compromised skin and its management.

Note that eczema is not a self-limiting condition and does not fall under the self-care agenda.