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When Dry Skin Isn’t Just Dryness: As winter arrives and the air turns cold and dry, many of us reach for our moisturisers more often. Yet, sometimes, no matter how much lotion we apply, our skin still feels rough, tight, or flaky. While it’s easy to blame this on the season, persistent dryness can actually be a sign of something more serious—like eczema or dermatitis. According to experts, what often looks like “dry skin” may actually be an inflammatory skin condition that needs more than just moisturising.

Dr Soma Sarkar, MBBS, MD (Dermatology) and Co-Founder of Skin Beyond Borders (SkinBB), explains that the key difference lies in consistency and cause. Ordinary dryness usually appears during colder months and improves with proper skincare, while eczema doesn’t. Eczematic skin stays rough, itchy, and inflamed throughout the year, often without a clear reason. It’s not merely about hydration loss—it’s about how your immune system reacts to internal and external triggers.

Signs That Dry Skin Might Actually Be Eczema

At first glance, dry skin and eczema may look similar, but they behave differently. Dry skin tends to appear dull or flaky, particularly when the humidity drops. Eczema, however, comes with intense itching, red patches, and sometimes oozing or crusting. You might notice these patches in areas such as behind your knees, inside your elbows, on your neck, or even across your cheeks.

The main difference is that dry skin simply lacks oil and moisture. Eczema, on the other hand, is a chronic inflammatory reaction caused by the body’s immune system. This means it’s not just a surface issue—it’s your skin signaling that something deeper is wrong. If your skin feels itchy enough to disturb your sleep, or if scratching leads to redness or bleeding, that’s a strong indicator of eczema rather than simple dryness.

Common Eczema Triggers You Might Overlook

Eczema flare-ups can be caused by a range of triggers. Environmental factors like cold weather, low humidity, or pollution can irritate the skin. But internal factors such as stress, diet, and hormonal changes also play a role. Dr Sarkar highlights that harsh skincare products, fragranced lotions, or chemical-based face washes often make things worse. Even preservatives and artificial colors used in personal care products can inflame sensitive skin.

Unlike typical dryness that improves with regular moisturising, eczema tends to persist and even worsen if these irritants are not removed. So if your skin burns or stings after applying a product—or if “dry patches” become inflamed and itchy—it’s time to reconsider what’s touching your skin.

How to Care for Your Skin the Right Way

The foundation of healthy skin is a strong skin barrier. For mild dryness, a simple routine of gentle cleansing and rich, fragrance-free moisturising can work wonders. However, for eczema-prone skin, the approach needs to be more cautious. Avoid long, hot showers since they strip away natural oils. Use lukewarm water and mild, sulfate-free cleansers instead.

When choosing a moisturiser, go for one that contains ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients lock in moisture and help rebuild the skin barrier. In some cases, dermatologists may prescribe medical emollients or mild steroid creams to reduce inflammation.

And don’t overlook your lifestyle. Stress, lack of sleep, and dehydration can all make eczema worse. Dr Sarkar advises practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation. Staying hydrated and sleeping well can help maintain skin stability and reduce flare-ups over time.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your skin’s dryness is accompanied by intense itching, redness, or flaky patches that don’t heal even after consistent care, it’s time to visit a dermatologist. In some cases, eczema and dermatitis can mimic other skin conditions like psoriasis, fungal infections, or allergies. Only a professional can diagnose accurately through a physical exam or patch test.

A dermatologist can also provide customized treatments—ranging from topical steroids to advanced therapies—based on the severity of your condition. Early diagnosis helps control symptoms before they lead to infection or scarring. Remember, ignoring persistent skin irritation can worsen inflammation and damage the skin’s natural defense system.