Xerosis Cutis in the Aging Population: an Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment

Purpose of Review The goal of this paper is to identify risk factors for dry skin in the elderly as well as to outline a treatment approach to xerosis in the elderly population. Recent Findings Females and those with darker skin types are at higher risk for dry skin. Certain medications such as diuretics and statins also are associated with higher incidence of xerosis. Ceramide-containing moisturizers help to play a protective role. Summary A detailed medication review is warranted for all patients with dry skin. In the elderly, xerosis is a result of a complex interplay of genetic, behavioral, and comorbid factors. Prior to treatment for xerosis cutis, evaluation for an underlying primary inflammatory disease of skin should be ruled out.