Why does the skin on the elbows peel: what to do

05.04.2024 02:30
Updated: 12.05.2024 22:01

Rough, unpleasant to the touch and unsightly skin on the elbows. Does this problem sound familiar?

Before you reach for a moisturizing lotion, it's worth considering where the problem came from.

Why does the skin on my elbows become dry?

The skin on your elbows is a little different from the skin on other parts of your body. First of all, it is thicker and more susceptible to keratosis.

cream
Photo: Pixabay

A small number of sebaceous glands in this area is also a common cause of dry and even cracked skin on the elbows.

Natural predisposition is not the only reason why the skin on your elbows can be dry. Other causes include:

  • genetic inheritance;
  • use of inappropriate cosmetics;
  • insufficient water intake;
  • poor diet;
  • some diseases.

Is dry skin on the elbows a symptom of illness?

Dry skin on the elbows can be a harbinger of health problems. Of course, if you notice peeling skin, you don’t need to rush to the doctor right away.

You should pay close attention to other symptoms, which are a kind of hint from the body. It is worth remembering that dry elbows often bother people suffering from:

  • diabetes;
  • psoriasis;
  • eczema;
  • atopic dermatitis;
  • hypothyroidism.

If, along with the problem of dry elbows, there are other unusual reactions of the body (for example, redness of the skin, general fatigue, severe itching), you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

How to moisturize dry skin on elbows?

Dry itchy elbows are relatively rarely a symptom of a disease. Most often, it is the result of lack of care and improper nutrition. To prevent peeling of the epidermis, it is important to remember simple rules of care.

Ointment or cream for dry elbows

Perhaps the lotion you are using does not moisturize the skin on your elbows enough. It is worth looking in a store or pharmacy for creams with strong moisturizing and softening properties for these problem areas. In this case, it is recommended to buy products with urea and cosmetic acids.

Gentle peeling

When exfoliating your body skin, don't forget about your elbows. However, scrub these areas very carefully - excessive abrasion of the epidermis can cause it to build up.

Healthy balanced diet

It is clear that healthy skin is nourished from the inside. It is important to get vitamins and minerals from vegetables, fruits, lean meats, whole grains and high-quality dairy products. However, processed foods, sugar and stimulants should be avoided.

The skin wants water

Dry skin is one of the main symptoms of dehydration. Drinking the required amount of water will significantly improve the condition of the skin.

Suitable body lotions

When the problem of dry elbows decreases a little, you need to moisturize the skin of the body with a good balm that restores the lipid layer. Avoid cosmetics containing alcohol, SLS, parabens, artificial colors and fragrances.

Dry elbows and... knees

Inadequate care and improper nutrition can cause dryness not only of the elbows, but also of the knees. The skin of the knees is more resistant to the effects of harmful factors (it is supported by a large amount of fatty tissue).

If you notice dryness and roughness in this area, you should treat it the same way as the skin on your elbows.

Dry, itchy elbows are a solvable problem. Just make a few small changes to your daily body care and diet, and your skin's appearance will improve dramatically.

Previously we talked about the causes of hair loss in women .

Valeria Kisternaya Author: Valeria Kisternaya Editor of Internet resources

Elena Gutyro Expert: Elena Gutyro 


Content
  1. Why does the skin on my elbows become dry?
  2. Ointment or cream for dry elbows
  3. Healthy balanced diet
  4. The skin wants water
  5. Suitable body lotions
  6. Dry elbows and... knees