Endogenous factors - Dry skin

Dry skin (xerosis) is a predisposing factor for the development of eczema. It is common in people with atopy as well as in elderly people, where the epidermal cells are not able to produce the necessary lipids as fast as they do in younger persons. Xerosis occurs as a consequence of decreasing intercellular lipid production or decreased intercellular lipids and reduced water-binding capacity of the horny layer. Soaps, desinfectants and excessive washing of the skin remove the lipids from the horny layer and thus lead to xerosis. Chronic UV-damage, dry air and low temperature are aggravating factors.