How to get rid of ashy skin
People of African-American or African descent may have heard the term ‘ashy skin’. This is a skin condition which is also known by the scientific names, keratinized dehydrated disorder, asteatosis or xerosis.
The condition it is actually a simple and very dry skin condition which is associated with a whitish or grayish coloring. This resembles the ashes left after something is burnt, which appears on brown and darkly pigmented skin, and the reason for the name.
However all skin tones can experience ‘ashiness’. Even people with Caucasian and pale Asian skin can look chalky from its surface dead cells. This ashy skin is just more noticeable on darker skin. Some dermatologists also suggest that it’s because black skin tends to shed and flake more easily than other skin tones.
Ashy skin is most common on elbows, knees, arms, heels and lower legs. Though it is not serious, it can be embarrassing as like dandruff, it can get onto clothing.
Possible causes
It is when dead skin cells are shed from the skin surface that the body starts producing new skin cells under the surface. The new skin cells travel through the epidermis to reach the top layer, and push older cells off.
At times, these dead skin cells start accumulating to form dry scales that do not go through the body’s natural exfoliation process, and forms a barrier which makes the skin look dull and unable to absorb moisturizers.
Ashy skin also develops when the skin does not get enough water to keep it smooth and supple. This usually happens in dry or cold climates when the dry air strips the skin of water and leaves it flaky and rough.
Treatment options
It is important that you choose mild and moisturizing products to treat ashy skin. Avoid products containing alcohol like deodorant soaps and harsh scrubs as it can get dry and irritating for the skin.
Instead, use mild cleansers as alkaline soap-based cleansers can make the skin dry and damage it by stripping the lipid layer. Use products containing lactic acid like Amlactin which exfoliate the skin while hydrating and improving skin texture.
In severe cases, it is better to consult our doctor as your skin will need a prescription strength product with salicylic acid which can slough and smooth out ashy skin. Avoid taking long hot showers and baths as it strips your skin of natural oils.
Pat your skin with a towel after bathing or showering to leave it slightly damp, and immediately apply a moisturizer. If you have oily skin and notice ashy patches on your face or body, use a gentle exfoliant thrice a week to remove the dead skin cells on the skin surface.
However don’t over-moisturize such skin as it only aggravates your oily skin. If you still suffer from dry and itchy skin after following these skin care tips, consult your dermatologist to ensure the condition is not triggered by allergies or skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema.