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Treatment of mycosis (fungal infection) of smooth skin at the Oxford Medical Kiev private clinic

Treatment of xerosis of the skin

Dryness, flaking, a feeling of tightness or itching are typical manifestations of xerosis, a condition in which the skin loses moisture faster than it can restore it. In this situation, regular creams do not provide results, and the discomfort keeps increasing.

At Oxford Medical medical centre, we treat each patient with care and help find the cause of excessive dryness. The doctor assesses the condition of the skin and selects gentle and effective treatment that gradually restores the water balance and reduces irritation.

Our goal is to restore comfort and health to your skin and to bring you a feeling of lightness and confidence.

Make an appointment with a dermatologist at a time that is convenient for you!

What is xerosis?

Xerosis is a condition in which the skin becomes excessively dry due to disruption of its natural protective layer. Normally, the upper layer of the skin contains lipids that retain moisture and reduce sensitivity to external factors. When this lipid film is depleted, the skin loses water more quickly and reacts to irritants more strongly than usual.

If the dryness is prolonged and very pronounced, it sometimes resembles a condition close to xeroderma, which requires especially delicate care and proper treatment.

Xerosis of the skin: symptoms and manifestations

Xerosis develops gradually but becomes more noticeable over time.

The main symptoms of xerosis:

flaking and roughness of the skin;

a feeling of tightness after washing or showering;

itching, irritation and redness;

small cracks in areas of pronounced dryness.

List of diseases

The manifestations may differ depending on the area:

  • xerosis of the hands is often accompanied by cracks, irritation and increased sensitivity;
  • xerosis on the legs usually presents as marked dryness and roughness, especially in the shin area;
  • xerosis on the face may cause flaking and discomfort when using cosmetics.

Main causes of xerosis of the skin

Xerosis can develop under the influence of various factors. Most often it occurs when the natural lipid barrier of the skin is disrupted and it begins to lose moisture faster than it is restored. In cases of excessive dryness of the hands, the causes may include frequent hand washing, the use of household chemicals or work in a humid environment, which weakens the protective layer of the skin.

Common causes of very dry skin:

Use of products that overdry the skin

Some cleansing products can excessively remove oils from the skin and disrupt its natural protective layer. Household chemicals act in a similar way. Because of this, the skin quickly loses moisture, becomes sensitive, begins to flake and shows the signs of xerosis more clearly.

Exposure to cold and wind

Low temperatures and wind dry out the surface of the skin, making it more sensitive and prone to irritation.

Dry indoor air

Heating or air conditioning significantly reduces humidity, which accelerates dehydration of the superficial layers of the skin.

Insufficient hydration of the body

Disruption of the water balance reduces skin elasticity and makes it prone to dryness.

Age-related changes

With age, lipid production decreases, so the skin loses moisture more quickly. However, xerosis may be aggravated not only by age-related changes: in dry skin, conditions such as atopic dermatitis, endocrine disorders or deficiencies of nutrients can also provoke or worsen symptoms.

Diagnostics of xerosis

Diagnostics of xerosis begins with a careful conversation and examination. The doctor clarifies when the symptoms appeared, what exactly worsens or relieves the condition of the skin, and how it reacts to skin care and environmental factors. This information helps determine whether xerosis is an isolated condition or is associated with internal disorders or external influences. During diagnosis, the doctor also rules out other dermatological diseases, including psoriasis and eczema, which may have similar manifestations but require a different approach to treatment.

During the examination, the specialist assesses the level of dryness, the type of flaking, and the presence of cracks or irritated areas. For some patients, it is important to understand whether the dryness is related to lifestyle and the use of cosmetic products, or whether it has deeper causes — for example, hormonal changes or nutrient deficiencies.

If there is a suspicion that comorbid conditions affect the skin, the doctor may recommend additional tests. Comprehensive diagnostics allows not only to reduce symptoms, but also to identify the cause of dryness. This makes treatment more precise and the result more stable.

The patient may be prescribed:

  • Complete blood count and biochemical tests. They allow assessment of the body's condition and help identify signs of inflammation, anaemia or metabolic disorders that may contribute to dryness.
  • Tests for thyroid hormone levels. Hypothyroidism often presents with dryness, dullness and changes in skin texture, so evaluation of thyroid function is an important part of diagnostics.
  • Assessment of vitamin and trace element levels. Deficiency of vitamin D, omega fatty acids, zinc or other nutrients can weaken the skin barrier and provoke xerosis.
  • Allergy testing. Performed if there is a suspicion that dryness or irritation occurs in response to specific allergens, cosmetic ingredients or skin care products.

Xerosis of the skin: treatment

In xerosis, treatment must be comprehensive, because it is important not only to reduce dryness but also to restore the protective barrier and eliminate the factors that caused the disorder. At Oxford Medical medical centre, therapy is selected individually, taking into account the form of xerosis, the severity of symptoms, the patient’s age and possible comorbid diseases.

The main treatment directions include:

Restoration of the skin’s protective barrier

The doctor selects products with restorative components that compensate for lipid deficiency and help the skin retain moisture. These are usually emollients and products with ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids that restore the structure of the stratum corneum and reduce irritation.

Moisturising and softening

Products with hyaluronic acid, urea in appropriate concentrations and natural oils are used. They increase the moisture level in the skin and make it more elastic. For pronounced xerosis, the doctor may recommend medicinal products with a stronger moisturising effect.

Relief of inflammation and itching

If there is redness, itching or microcracks, anti-inflammatory creams or ointments may be used. In some cases, a short course of topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors is prescribed for rapid reduction of irritation.

Treatment of comorbid conditions

If xerosis is associated with atopic dermatitis, endocrine disorders or nutrient deficiency, the treatment plan includes correction of these conditions. Eliminating the underlying cause helps restore the skin much faster.

How to care for the skin in xerosis?

Proper care helps to reduce dryness and prevent recurrence.

Basic skin care tips for xerosis:

  • choose mild cleansers without aggressive surfactants, soap or alcohol;
  • moisturise the skin daily, especially after a shower, while it is still slightly damp;
  • avoid very hot water when washing or showering;
  • maintain comfortable humidity indoors, especially during the heating season;
  • protect the skin from cold and wind, use gloves;
  • drink enough water to maintain overall water balance.

Following these simple rules together with professional treatment helps to significantly reduce the manifestations of xerosis and keep the skin healthy.

Cost of treatment of xerosis of the skin at Oxford Medical medical centre in Kyiv

Xerosis requires a comprehensive approach, so it is not possible to determine the exact cost of treatment in advance. First, the doctor identifies the cause and provoking factors, and after the examination draws up a treatment plan and provides individual skin care recommendations.

At Oxford Medical, you can receive all the necessary medical services in Kyiv and Irpin: consult a doctor, have tests done and, if necessary, undergo other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.

Find out the price of treatment for xerosis, eczema and other dermatological diseases and see all services of the private clinic in Kyiv on the here.

To make an appointment, call the listed phone numbers or use the online booking form.

Frequently asked questions

What does xerosis look like?

Xerosis manifests as dryness, flaking, a feeling of tightness and roughness. The skin may become red and itchy, and in some cases small cracks appear. Most often these changes are noticeable on the hands, legs, face and areas that are exposed to cold or household chemicals.

What can cause xerosis of the skin?

Xerosis of the skin develops due to disruption of the protective barrier. It may be caused by cold air, dry climate, aggressive skin care products, frequent hand washing or hot showers. Hormonal changes, endocrine disorders, vitamin deficiencies or chronic dermatological diseases can also be the cause.

How is dry skin treated?

Treatment begins with restoration of the lipid barrier: use of products with ceramides, urea or hyaluronic acid. It is important to avoid aggressive skin care products, avoid hot water and moisturise the skin after a shower. In cases of pronounced dryness, consultation with a dermatologist and an individual treatment plan are required.

What should you eat to avoid dry skin?

To maintain skin hydration, it is important to drink enough water and consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids: fish, almonds, flax seeds. Vegetables and fruits with a high content of antioxidants and vitamins A, C and E are also beneficial. The diet should be balanced to support the skin and its barrier functions.

What factors increase the risk of developing xerosis of the skin?

The main risk factors include low air humidity, cold, wind, frequent use of aggressive detergents, hot showers and insufficient water intake. Age-related changes, hormonal disorders, chronic dermatological conditions and deficiency of vitamins or trace elements also predispose to xerosis.

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Advantages of treatment of xerosis of the skin at Oxford Medical private clinic

Comprehensive examination. If necessary, tests and additional investigations are carried out to accurately identify the factors that cause dryness.

Individual approach. The doctor selects treatment according to the causes of dryness and skin sensitivity to ensure a lasting result.

Comfortable conditions. The consultation takes place in a calm atmosphere, and the doctor explains each stage of diagnostics and treatment in detail.

Follow-up support. The patient receives recommendations on home care so that the treatment result is maintained for a long time.

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Ростислав 13.01.2026
Звернувся з дитиною після тривалих шлункових проблем. Лікарка швидко зорієнтувалася в ситуації, описала можливі причини та запропонувала план обстежень без зайвих процедур. Ірина Всеволодівна вміє знайти контакт з дітьми, пояснює все так, щоб усе стало зрозумілим навіть батькам без медичного досвіду. Приємне враження. Дякую
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Марія 13.01.2026
Лілія Миколаївна уважно поставилася до моєї проблеми, оглянула шкіру та детально розпитала про попередній догляд. Запропонувала кілька підходів до лікування, пояснила їхні переваги. Дуже сподобався спокійний стиль спілкування та вміння заспокоїти пацієнта.
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