Dry, itchy &
flaky legs?
Dry skin on legs is a common concern that can leave skin feeling rough, flaky, or uncomfortable. Factors such as cold weather, hot showers, ageing, and everyday skincare habits can all contribute to moisture loss and make dryness more noticeable.
This guide explains what causes dry skin on legs and how to care for and help prevent it, including NIVEA products that can help keep skin soft and comfortable.
What causes
DRY, ITCHY SKIN ON LEGS?
Dry skin on the legs occurs when the skin doesn't retain enough moisture to keep its protective barrier¹ in good condition. This can cause the skin to feel rough, tight, flaky, or itchy, and in some cases, it may crack or become irritated. Although dry skin can develop anywhere on the body, the legs are particularly prone to dryness because they have fewer oil glands than other areas.
While it is usually a temporary and harmless concern, regular moisturising and a gentle skincare routine can help restore hydration and keep the skin feeling soft and comfortable. However, if dryness is persistent, severe or does not improve with regular skincare, it is recommended to speak with a healthcare professional to understand the possible underlying cause.
There are many causes of dry or itchy legs. It can happen at any time, day or night. Some itchiness is completely normal and not worth mentioning. Others, however, may be the result of a skin condition that needs to be treated by a pharmacist or doctor. Here are some of the main causes of dry, itchy legs:
- Eczema: this is one of the most common skin conditions. It can show up as patches of dry, itchy skin. Some moisturising creams can help, but it’s always best to speak to your doctor if you’re affected.
- Psoriasis: this skin condition can appear as red or grey patches on fragile skin. It is often found on the legs or arms. A dermatologist or general practitioner will be best placed to advise you on a suitable cream or ointment, although the causes of psoriasis are not yet fully understood.
- Dry or peeling skin: in general, dry skin is nothing to worry about and can be treated with moisturising creams, lotions or milks. However, if you have been burnt as a result of overexposure to the sun, you should look out for an after-sun treatment with aloe vera to soothe and help repair the skin. In more serious cases of burnt skin, always consult your doctor.
- Cool weather, strong winds or low humidity can dry out your skin and cause eczema or simply dry skin. But don’t worry, it’s not uncommon for people to suffer from seasonal eczema.
- Irritants or allergens such as pollen, latex or insect bites can also cause dry skin on the legs or arms. It’s always best not to scratch the affected areas and to resist temptation. A pharmacist will be able to advise you if you think you have been irritated by an external cause.
- Age: as we age, our skin’s ability to retain moisture diminishes. This can inevitably lead to dry skin, particularly on the legs. So it’s important to maintain a good moisturising routine to keep skin well nourished.
Rejuvenating
DRY LEGS
Caring for dry legs does not need a complicated routine. These five steps may help support the skin barrier and keep legs feeling softer and more comfortable.
Why do my legs get dry?
People of all ages can experience dry skin on their legs, and it’s nothing to be worried about. The drying out can be caused by a number of factors, depending on your lifestyle, your overall health, and of course, your moisturising routine. Flaky or dry skin on legs can be itchy and sore if not kept on top of, but thankfully a little bit of self-care can go a long way to keep your legs looking and feeling great.
What causes dry, itchy skin on legs?
There are several causes of dry, itchy legs, which can occur at any time during the day or night. Some itches may be completely normal and not even worth mentioning, and others may be the result of a skin condition, which can and should be treated with prescribed medicine, courtesy of a pharmacist or GP. Some of the main causes of dry and itchy legs include:
- Eczema: a very common type of skin condition, which can present as dry and itchy patches of skin. Although some moisturisers can help, it’s always best to speak to your GP if you’re concerned about eczema.
- Psoriasis: this skin condition can present itself as brittle red or silver scales on the skin, often found on the legs or arms. Although it’s not fully understood what causes psoriasis, a dermatologist or GP will be most qualified to advise on a cream or ointment able to soothe the affected areas.
Why does dry skin on legs
LOOK LIKE SNAKESKIN?
NIVEA offers both body lotions and body milks, but what’s the difference? In short, it’s all down to the proportion of water to oil. Body lotion contains more water to offer a cooling effect on the skin, whereas body milk is much richer, making it a powerful and effective moisturiser for cracked, damaged or dry skin. Discover the full range of NIVEA Body Lotions and Milks to find the perfect product for you.