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Dry skin is a very common problem that most people experience at some point in their life. It affects men and women equally and is characterised by parched, dull looking skin, flakiness, dry patches and skin itching.

The elderly are more likely to experience dry skin as they tend to have reduced levels of natural skin oils. Those in ill-health or on medication may also experience skin dryness.
Body changes such as pregnancy or menopause, changes in climate, and reactions to irritants such as using a different washing powder may all cause dry skin. Certain jobs or hobbies can trigger dry skin, particularly those which require regular hand-washing such as nursing or catering, or activities that involve regular exposure to chemicals, such as hair-dressing.

Extreme dryness can cause the skin to crack, which can then become infected causing inflammation and itching. This is particularly common on areas of the body which may have reduced blood circulation such as the heels of the feet.