Why Is My Skin Red and Scaly?

Is your skin feeling dry, irritated, and unusually red? Red, scaly skin can show up out of nowhere and leave you feeling frustrated. 

It’s hard to tell what’s going on without a proper evaluation from a dermatologist, but there are several reasons why this might be happening — some temporary, others longer term.

At Hines Dermatology Associates in Attleboro, Massachusetts, Dr. Yvonne Hines diagnoses and treats all types of conditions that cause red, scaly skin.

5 possible causes of dry, red, scaly skin

Let’s take a look at some of the most common causes of irritated skin and what you can do to find relief:

Psoriasis

This autoimmune disease causes red, scaly plaques to form nearly anywhere. Depending on the type you have, psoriasis plaques can develop on your scalp, elbows, knees, or even your lower back. 

Psoriasis occurs when skin cells multiply too quickly, and the buildup causes the characteristic redness and scaling. While there’s no cure, treatments like topical and oral medications can help manage flare-ups and reduce symptoms.

Eczema

Eczema looks more like a rash than the characteristic scales of psoriasis. It tends to cause red, inflamed, dry skin that can even crack and ooze. Eczema patches are thick and hard. They may even bleed if you scratch too much.

The exact cause of eczema isn’t clear, but many people have certain triggers — detergents, fragrances, certain foods, or temperature changes — that cause flare-ups. A combination of topical moisturizing creams, oral medications, and trigger avoidance is usually helpful in managing eczema.

Urticaria

Typically the result of an allergic reaction, hives (urticaria) look like raised, red welts. They often appear out of nowhere after an allergic reaction to food, medication, or even stress. The good news is that antihistamines usually help calm the reaction and bring quick relief.

Fungal infections

Fungal infections, like ringworm or athlete's foot, can also cause red, flaky patches on your skin. These infections thrive in warm, damp places. You can turn to antifungal creams or oral medications to help clear things up and get your skin back to normal.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that usually develops when you come in contact with an irritant — plants, metals in jewelry, perfumes, etc. It causes small blisters, red bumps, and swelling in the affected area. The reaction feels itchy and uncomfortable, but it usually clears up once you avoid the trigger. 

Applying soothing creams and taking antihistamines can reduce the inflammation and speed up recovery.

Don’t wait for red, scaly skin to clear up on its own. With professional care, you can find relief and come up with a plan to keep recurrences at bay.

Call Hines Dermatology Associates in Attleboro at 508-222-1976 or book an appointment online to get the help you deserve.