Ashy skin is a throw in of dry skin that is whitish or gray in color.
It can be sparked by the environment, weather, and dry or cool air indoors.
Ashy knees and elbows are common, but ashy skin can appear anywhere on the body.
Verywell / Laura Porter
Ashy skin may cause few symptoms or it may itch, crack, or burn.
Excessively dry skin is calledxerosis.
This article discusses ashy skin and what causes it.
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It also goes over some of the treatments that can help relieve symptoms of ashy skin.
Verywell / Laura Porter
What Is Ashy Skin?
Ashy skin describes dry skin that is pale gray or white and resembles ashes.
The term is most often used to describe the way dry skin looks on people with darker skin tones.
Some reasons to call your healthcare provider include:
It is also important to consider the skin tone.
Individuals with darker skin tones have more pronounced ashy skin.
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Environment
Depending on where you live, the environment can be a big factor behind ashy skin.
Living in extreme cold and dry temperatures can cause dryness.
Lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy diet and drinking enough water will help yourskinstay healthy and hydrated.
Using certain detergents and soaps or bathing too long can also cause dry and ashy skin.
Smoking is also another cause of ashy skin.
Age
As people age, thesebumnaturally declines.
This starts at about 40 years old and continues as age progresses.
Sebum is the bodys natural ability to moisturize skin.
As the aging process continues, the skin will naturally become thinner.
Why Are Middle Age and Older Adults Prone to Ashy Skin?
Because dry skin can lead to other skin complications, its important to monitor carefully.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions that affect the skin can cause it to dry and/or look ashy.
How Is Ashy Skin Diagnosed?
Dry and ashy skin is pretty visible.
The dermatologists will look at your skin and create a treatment plan that is specified for you.
They can help you establish a treatment plan aimed at healing your skin and preventing symptoms from recurring.
Dry or ashy skin may appear pale and scaly and can itch or hurt from scratching.
Lifestyle changes, home remedies, and over-the-counter topical medications can help in some cases.
More severe cases may require treatment with prescription medication.
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