Scales occur when the outermost layer of theepidermisbecomes dry and flaky and peels.
The excess of dead skin cells results in the appearance of scaly skin.
Scales can be very thin and fine, as withpityriasis rosea, or thick, as withpsoriasis.
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Scaling skin is also referred to as peeling skin, flaking skin, dropping of scales, anddesquamation.
Scales can also become itchy and inflamed.
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People who have skin conditions, like eczema and psoriasis, are more prone to scaling skin.
What could also help in diagnosing the problem is letting your practitioner know if anything provides relief.
Your healthcare provider might refer you to a dermatologist if your condition is out of their wheelhouse.
In cases of allergic reactions, discontinuing contact or use of the allergen would solve your problem.
But you should see what is triggering the scales so seeing an allergist might be helpful.
Depending on the severity, oral medication, like a steroid, may be prescribed.
Scaling skin rarely constitutes a medical emergency, but it still happens.
An allergic reaction, for example, can become deadly if it isn’t dealt with.
If your scales appeared due to an allergic reaction, simply avoid your allergens.
Apply lotions that containemollientsorceramidesas needed.
Avoid taking long, excessively hot baths.
After bathing, pat the skin dry and apply a moisturizer.
Don’t use products that contain harsh chemical ingredients.
Use gentle cleansers and body care products with added moisturizers.
Cleveland Clinic.Dry skin/itchy skin.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Dermatologists' top tips for relieving dry skin.
Management and treatment of atopic dermatitis with topical therapies.J Am Acad Dermatol.
2014;71(1):116-32. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2014.03.023
