What is xerosis cutis?

Xerosis cutis is abnormally dry skin caused by a lack of epidermal lipids and is the most common cause of pruritus (itchy skin). 

It affects the outer layer of the skin which normally serves as a barrier to the external environment and provides protection against moisture loss. Visual signs of Xerosis include dry, scaly, and ashy skin. This abnormally dry skin may show decreased elasticity, coarse texture, wrinkling, erythema and fissures (cracks in the skin).

Xerosis Cutis Symptoms

Most people will experience xerosis cutis at some point. It's an incredibly common, and not generally serious, skin problem.

Symptoms of xerosis cutis include:

• Itching
• Scaly or flaking skin
• A feeling of tightness
• Roughness of the skin
• Cracking or peeling, in more severe case

You may see ultra-fine lines across the surface. The skin may take on a white, grey, or ashy appearance, and it may look like you can see a "layer" of dry skin on the surface atop your normal skin.

If xerosis cutis gets worse it can cause redness and irritation. Cracks in the skin can become deep, and may bleed.

Xeroderma can happen over the entire body, but it is most common on the arms, legs, hands, and feet. The face is also a typical place to develop extra-dry skin. It's less common on the trunk.

You may not have xerosis cutis all the time; it may come and go, especially as the seasons change. Xeroderma is more common during the extremes of winter and summer.

What Causes Xerosis Cutis?

Dry skin is linked to a decrease in the oils on the surface of the skin. It is usually triggered by environmental factors. 

The following activities or conditions may lead to dry skin:

• overcleansing or overscrubbing the skin
• taking baths or showers using excessively hot water
• bathing too frequently
• vigorous towel-drying
• living in areas of low humidity
• living in areas with cold, dry winters
• using central heating in your home or workplace
• dehydration, or not drinking enough water
• extended sun exposure

How Ozonated Oil Can Help?

Instead of conventional skin creams, which may contain fragrances, dyes and other ingredients that can dry out your skin or irritate your current xerosis, try moisturizers made with natural plant-based oils that soothe and hydrate: 

• Ozonated Olive Oil
• Ozonated Coconut Oil

Ozonated Olive/Coconut oil’s main benefit is to moisturize the skin by reducing water loss. This moisturization increases the water content of the skin, improving its health and appearance.

Ozone has many healing properties and can be used to improve the skin's condition by stimulating natural cell growth. The ozone molecule is a highly reactive molecule, which makes it beneficial for various ailments from skincare to respiratory issues. Products that contain ozone have antibacterial properties, while also stimulating collagen production in the body. This balances out sebum production in your pores, leaving your complexion looking clearer and feeling softer, while also reducing inflammation. 

The ingredients used in our ozonated oil are natural and the oils not only moisturize your skin but also have anti-inflammatory properties. It's important to not let your skin be exposed to high heat, as it can adversely affect the product. We suggest applying the oil topically and in small quantities. Regular use of ozonated oil on your skin can prevent xerosis cutis by revitalizing dead cells in the epidermal layer of the skin, adding a youthful glow to your complexion.

When You Should See a Doctor?

You should see a dermatologist if:

• your skin is oozing
• large areas of your skin are peeling
• you have a ring-shaped rash
• your skin doesn’t improve within a few weeks
• your skin gets much worse, despite treatment