Dry Skin or Dermatitis?

What seems like a bad case of dry skin may actually be a more serious skin condition. There are several kinds of dermatitis, the scientific word for extremely dry skin. To determine if your dry skin requires attention, let’s delve into the 4 most common types.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact Dermatitis is a skin reaction caused by coming in contact with an allergen. Common chemicals to cause contact dermatitis are nickel, bleach, grooming products, and chlorine. It may take a few days for a reaction to appear. The skin sends out inflammatory chemicals to the contacted area. Contact Dermatitis can be painful and burn. It goes away within a few weeks once removed from contact with the allergen. 

Atopic Dermatitis - Eczema

Atopic Dermatitis, or eczema, is a common and chronic skin condition. It is often inherited and begins during childhood. The skin becomes dry with small bumps and flaky patches that are itchy and sensitive. The rashes commonly appear behind the knees and on the arms but can show up on the face and other areas. Although there is no cure, avoiding certain irritants and applying ointments can improve the condition. 

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic Dermatitis, commonly known as dandruff, is usually found on the scalp, but it can also affect oily areas of the face such as the eyebrows and nose. Seborrheic Dermatitis creates itchy patches of scaly skin. It is characteristically greasy, peeling off easily.

Nummular Eczema

Nummular Eczema is a skin condition in which coin-shaped lesions decorate the skin. These lesions are a weepy, oozy dermatitis. Often showing up in wintertime, Nummular Eczema can be red, pink, or brown. The skin becomes scaly and inflamed.

Treating Dry Skin Conditions

Use gentle moisturizers and ointments to soothe dry skin conditions. Our Oxygenetix Hydro-Matrix contains natural and effective ingredients such as aloe vera and Hyaluronic Acid. Made without harmful chemicals, Hydro-Matrix gently cools and hydrates sensitive dry skin. The formula works to attract moisture to the skin throughout the day, making Hydro-Matrix dry skin's top ally.

To learn more about available treatments for various dermatitis conditions, contact your dermatologist or a skincare professional.