Unlike normal, dry skin, flaky skin can be an unsightly, uncomfortable problem. Not to mention the long list of possible causes: The causes of flaking skin could fill a textbook, ranging from common conditions like psoriasis and eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, to rare genetic disorders, skin lymphomas, or allergic reactions. Suffice it to say, nationally certified dermatologist Dr. Hayley Goldbach. Depending on the specific cause, the treatment for flaky skin may vary. (This is a symptom you should most likely see a dermatologist for—more on that later.) While the causes can vary, “in general, visible scaling is caused by the shedding of the top layer of skin, called the stratum corneum,” she explains. Below, Goldbach and board-certified dermatologist Melanie Palm, MD, MBA, explain what you should consider if you have flaky skin, and which treatments you should try first.
Causes of Peeling Skin
As mentioned above, there are many reasons why your skin may be flaking. So it’s best to see a dermatologist to find out the right cause, especially if you’re not sure what it might be. However, here’s more information on five of the most common causes:
Dry skin: While flaky patches may not just be dryness (i.e., your skin may be dry but not actually flaky), there are a lot of overlapping conditions. “In most cases, flaking skin is caused by dryness or a lack of moisture,” explains Palm. “Scaly skin is often the result of a damaged skin barrier. When the skin barrier is damaged, its ability to retain moisture is compromised, which can lead to a flaky or flaky appearance.”
Eczema or atopic dermatitis: “This is an inflammatory disease where inflammation of the top layer of the skin causes the skin to appear scaly and red,” says Goldbach. It can also appear as crusty patches, which can cause the skin to break out and bleed if left untreated, adds Palm. In the case of eczema, there are often external factors (such as soaps and harsh perfumes) that can be triggers, she notes.
Psoriasis: “Psoriasis is another inflammatory disease,” explains Goldbach. “In this case, the top layer of skin is actually thicker. It grows so quickly that it doesn’t have time to shed properly, and pink or red patches with a ‘silver’ cuticle appear on the skin.”
Seborrheic dermatitis: Commonly known as dandruff, this condition causes flaky skin on the scalp that may break off the head. Inflammation plays a role here, too (the root cause of the problem is a reaction to yeast that occurs naturally in our bodies), and it’s often concentrated in the hair follicles, leading to flaky patches that may also look a bit greasy, Goldbach says.
Actinic keratosis: This precancerous condition, commonly called AK, is a precursor to squamous cell carcinoma. It’s caused by UV exposure and damage, and can appear as thick, flaky, or patchy skin that may be light pink, Palm says. Actinic keratosis often leads to skin cancer, so it’s especially important to get checked out by a licensed dermatologist as soon as possible. The skin often flakes and recurs, Palm adds, so if you notice scaly skin returning over and over, see your doctor.
This is what flaky skin looks like
Depending on the underlying cause, it can vary, but in general, flaky skin patches have a white and scaly appearance, Goldbach says. “Sometimes, depending on what’s causing the flaking, the skin underneath can be irritated and red,” she adds.
How to Treat Flaky Skin
In general, the first step to getting rid of flaky skin is to bind moisture back into the skin. Goldbach recommends using a thick, fragrance-free cream or ointment, noting that this is an especially good place to start if you suspect the flaky patches on your skin are caused by dry skin or very mild eczema. Palm agrees, adding that gentle exfoliation can help, too.
While some flaky skin patches can be treated at home, you should know that many require specific treatments to address specific causes. For example, Goldbach tells us that with seborrheic dermatitis, moisturizers won’t help much because you have to fight the yeast that’s causing the inflammation. Eczema usually requires a prescription for topical or oral steroids, while actinic keratosis definitely requires an evaluation by a dermatologist, Palm says.
Generally speaking, unless you’re certain your flaking skin is due to dryness, seeing a professional is absolutely crucial to determine the cause and proper treatment. “There are many reasons why your skin may flak, so it’s important to see a dermatologist, especially if your flaking skin doesn’t go away with a simple moisturizer,” advises Goldbach.
Final Conclusion
While flaky skin patches can be uncomfortable and worrisome, dermatologists have shed light on the most common causes and effective treatments for each. If you’re experiencing flaking skin for the first time, aren’t sure what’s causing it, or are finding that moisturizing and gentle exfoliation aren’t helping, make an appointment right away with a professional who can help you. Once you have a diagnosis and treatment plan in place, you’ll be on your way to soft, smooth skin again.
