Recommendations for Managing Xerosis in Community Pharmacies
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60103/phc.v28.e916Keywords:
Skin diseases; Skin care; Pharmacies/ Community PharmaciesAbstract
Xerosis or dry skin is a common dermatosis affecting 15% to 30% of the population, and more than 50% of people over 65 years of age. It is both a condition in itself and a symptom of other conditions (such as atopic dermatitis). Its severity depends on the loss of water in the stratum corneum of the skin.
Dry skin is characterized by rough, scaly skin, and is accompanied by discomfort and itching. The latter is the main symptom and causes scratching, which can damage the skin barrier and create a vicious cycle of itching and scratching. Although xerosis can occur in individuals of any age or background, some of the most affected populations are the elderly, infants, people with a history of dermatitis/eczema, institutionalized, those with chronic diseases (tumors, diabetes, hypothyroidism, chronic kidney failure, liver disease), at risk of malnutrition and those exposed to external factors (e.g., occupations requiring frequent hand washing, use of chemicals or exposure to extreme climates).
It is associated with pathologies such as dermatitis (atopic, contact, nummular, craquelé, etc.) as well as infectious diseases such as impetigo, folliculitis and herpes.
The community pharmacist plays a fundamental role in the identification of xerosis, personalized advice and referral to the physician when necessary, thus contributing to improving the quality of life of patients.
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