There are some days when Daisy Burris just can't stand her dry, itchy skin. 

"It's just uncomfortable and tight." 

Daisy told Dermatologist Rutledge Forney that she's tried almost everything. She puts a cream on and within 45 minutes to an hour she's already feeling tight and flaky. Forney blames cold temperatures outside and dry indoor heat that strips moisture from the skin.  Frequent, hot showers can also take a toll. 

"We recommend that she minimize the use of soap and that she only use soap in areas that really make an odor." 

Forney suggested Daisy use a humidifier and try some heavy duty over the counter lotions with an ingredient called petrolatum which seals moisture in the skin.  But Forney admits, it's no cure.  That's discouraging news for other patients like Betty Mathis, who has chronic cracked skin on her hands.   Forney recommends she use a prescription strength cream, and an old fashioned remedy of slipping on a pair of gloves when she heads outside. 

Print this Story