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what causes dry skin on elbows
Dry elbows is a common skin condition with several causes. Many cases of dry elbow can be due to changes in climate, lack of hydration, or irritation from fabrics or lotions. In some cases, dry elbows may be a sign of an underlying condition, such as psoriasis, eczema, diabetes, or thyroid issues.
Thyroid problems
Thyroid conditions can disrupt the skin’s normal function. This can lead to dry skin on the elbows and other areas of the body. People may have scaly skin that cracks, or feels tough and waxy.
Other symptoms of thyroid conditions can include:
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, people with diabetes are more likely to have dry skin. High blood sugar levels can cause dry, itchy skin.
Other signs of diabetes that appear on the skin include:
Sjogren’s syndrome
Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune condition. It can cause dryness throughout the body, and dry skin is the most common skin symptom.
Other symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome include:
People can help treat dry elbows with home remedies, moisturizers, and over-the-counter treatments. They should see a doctor if their elbows do not respond to treatment, or if symptoms get worse, such as:
If people have any additional symptoms alongside dry elbows, they can see a doctor who can check for underlying health conditions.
Healthcare professionals may refer to dry skin as xerosis. To find the cause of dry elbows, they may take a full medical history and carry out a physical examination. Blood tests can also help the diagnosis process.
People may have dry elbows for a variety of reasons, which are not usually serious. Treatments are often simple, though people may need to maintain them to prevent recurring dryness.
Those who swim frequently, or live in hot, dry climates may need to take extra care to protect their elbows from dryness.
If people have severe symptoms, or their dry elbows do not respond to home treatments, it may indicate an underlying condition. Once people begin to treat this issue, their symptoms may start to ease.
Dry skin is a common condition, and the elbows can be prone to dryness. Dehydration, smoking, cold weather, and some laundry detergents can all cause dry elbows.
A person who hydrates well, avoids irritating substances, and moisturizes regularly, help treat dry elbows.
In some cases, dry elbows may indicate an underlying condition. If people notice other symptoms alongside dry elbows, they can see their doctor for a check-up.
Last medically reviewed on July 27, 2020
Dry Elbows: Remedies, Causes, and More
If you aren’t moisturizing after every shower or bath, it’s time to start. You should also apply lotion to your elbows anytime they’re exposed to water or if there’s a drastic change in temperature.
Have you worn a new top or blouse recently? Or maybe you’re snuggling up into a new blanket? If you have sensitive skin, some fabrics can cause irritation and lead to dryness.
If the dryness persists, you should consult your doctor or dermatologist. This may be a sign of an undetected allergy or other medical condition.
Although dry elbows can be uncomfortable, the symptoms are often only temporary. Tweaking your shower routine or trying a new lotion may be all that’s needed to hydrate your skin and lock in moisture.
If you aren’t moisturizing after every shower or bath, it’s time to start. You should also apply lotion to your elbows anytime they’re exposed to water or if there’s a drastic change in temperature.
Why dO WE GET DRY elbowS?
Dry elbows are more common than other dry areas of skin on the body, but why is this the case? It’s due to a couple of factors:
Skin Problems & Treatments Guide
Does scaly skin have you itchy and uncomfortable? It may just be ordinary dry skin. But if over-the-counter products donât help you heal, you could have a medical condition that requires a doctors care.
There are several reasons for scaly skin. Whether you have a flaky scalp from time to time or scratchy patches all the time, a dermatologist can tell you if your symptoms are due to a lack of moisture or something more serious.