Scaly patch of skin

Scaling skin may make a person self-conscious, particularly if it occurs on their hands, feet, face, or other visible areas. The scales can itch and redden, and the condition can affect their quality of life.

Several skin disorders and physical conditions can lead to scaling skin. Scaling skin is usually a symptom of an underlying issue. Related conditions and diagnoses may include:. When you initially recognize scaling skin, you may simply apply lotion and not give it much thought. Your healthcare provider will ask about your medical history and your symptoms. If you can pinpoint when the symptoms first appeared, it may help your healthcare provider determine a cause.

Whether or not your skin itches or if anything provides relief could also help in diagnosing the problem. The diagnosis is made based on the appearance of your skin, your history of exposure to any irritating or allergenic substances, and any accompanying symptoms. Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and the cause of the scaling skin. In cases of allergic reactions, discontinuing use or contact with the allergen can solve your problem. You should still see an allergist to confirm what is triggering the scales.

Many times, skin conditions that lead to scaling can be treated with a simple topical cream. Oral medications are sometimes needed to address issues that are more than skin deep, however. Depending on the diagnosis, your healthcare provider may refer you to a dermatologist for specialized treatment.

Seborrheic dermatitis may go away without treatment. Or you may need many repeated treatments before the symptoms go away. And they may return later. Daily cleansing with a gentle soap and shampoo can help reduce oiliness and dead skin buildup.

Seborrheic dermatitis is also called dandruff, seborrheic eczema and seborrheic psoriasis. For infants, the condition is known as cradle cap and causes crusty, scaly patches on the scalp.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin disorder that mainly affects the scalp, causing itchy, yellow or white patchy scales or thick crusts that may attach to the hair shaft, as seen in the lower left side of the image. Cradle cap is characterized by scaly patches on a baby's scalp. You may notice thick, yellow patches of skin. The patches may be crusty or greasy.

Cradle cap appears as patchy scaling or thick crusts on the scalp and greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales. Cradle cap usually doesn't bother the infant. The signs and symptoms may be more severe if you're stressed, and they tend to flare in cold, dry seasons.

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This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Seborrheic dermatitis on the face Open pop-up dialog box Close. Seborrheic dermatitis on the face Seborrheic dermatitis causes a rash with yellowish and somewhat "oily" scales. Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp Open pop-up dialog box Close. Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin disorder that mainly affects the scalp, causing itchy, yellow or white patchy scales or thick crusts that may attach to the hair shaft, as seen in the lower left side of the image.

Cradle cap on light skin Open pop-up dialog box Close. People can treat mild forms of scaling skin with ointments or creams that contain urea, petrolatum, or lactic acid. If using creams and ointment regularly does not reduce the scaling, people can talk to their doctor about the best treatment options.

Doctors may recommend prescription-strength ointments to reduce swelling and itching, such as hydrocortisone. For more severe cases, healthcare providers may recommend oral steroids, antibiotics , or antihistamines.

Scaling leaves the skin broken and vulnerable to bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, which can lead to other health complications if left untreated. Some of the medical conditions mentioned above may lead to other health complications. For example, people with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis , a condition characterized by pain and inflammation of the joints.

Scaling skin is not a medical emergency. However, people should seek medical attention if they experience any of the following:. Scaling skin is a symptom of many different medical conditions, such as psoriasis, contact dermatitis, eczema, and fungal skin infections. People who experience persistent scaling may want to contact their healthcare provider to discuss treatment options.

Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and the cause of the scaling. People can treat mild forms of scaling with thick ointments or creams. More severe forms of scaling may require medical attention. Doctors may prescribe antifungals to treat ringworm or antihistamines to treat allergic reactions.

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