A Lupus rash is often accompanied by dry skin. Here are some suggestion to help ease the suffering.
You’re scratching all over and then look down at your arms and your legs: you realize that you look a little like a reptile. When your skin is dry, you can expect rough, flaky patches that can make you go crazy when they start to itch. Dry skin usually occurs in places like your arms, elbows, legs and knees, and on your back and stomach.
Why does this happen?
Dry skin is the result of a lack of moisture in your skin. You can help prevent dry skin by doing the following.
- Use moisturizers. Some people prefer lotions with alpha-hydroxy acids. These acids are derived from milk, fruit or sugarcane and work to remove dry crusty skin, as well as moisturize. People with sensitive skin can experience burning or stinging, and may not be able to use them.
- When you shower or bathe, use lukewarm water because hot water dehydrates you skin. Also use a mild, non-irritating soap. Don’t use harsh antibacterial or deodorant soaps that can dry your skin further.
How to get rid of dry skin?
There are numerous things that you can do to solve this common problem, including:
- Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize! Use a non-scented, thick cream. The best time to do this is right after you get out of the shower or bath. Apply the moisture to your damp skin. This will help keep in the moisture before it evaporates.
- Some people like to use the following, instead of a regular moisturizer: Baby oil, Petroleum Jelly.
Note that products with oil can cause pimples if you tend to get acne (acne is usually associated with oily skin, but people with dry skin can get it too). If you want a moisturizer that won’t cause pimples, look for the word “non-comedogenic.”
If moisturizing doesn’t seem to work, or if you have excessively dry, scaly skin, persistent, uncomfortable itching or skin that cracks open and bleeds, go see a health care provider. You may have another skin condition known as eczema or psoriasis.