Why is My Skin Scaly-looking? Common Causes and Ways to Treat
DRY, ITCHY OR SCALY SKIN
Overview
Dry, scaly-looking skin is a common concern that can show up in different ways – from rough patches or tightness to visibly flaky areas. While often associated with changes in weather or daily habits, it can be frustrating to manage without knowing the underlying causes.
Below, we’ll explore what scaly-looking skin can look like, unpack the various scaly-looking skin causes, and find out why it’s often exacerbated during colder months.We’ll also provide a four-step scaly-looking skin treatment routine for home – and discuss when you should see a dermatologist.What does scaly-looking skin look like?
Scaly-looking skin typically appears as rough, dry patches that may flake or feel bumpy to the touch. These areas can vary in size and texture, and often have a dull or visibly uneven tone. The surface of the skin may look tight, cracked, or feel less smooth than usual.
While they can occur anywhere on the body, dry, scaly-looking patches on skin are usually noticed on the arms, legs, heels and feet – or around joints where the skin may be drier.What causes scaly-looking skin?
Scaly-looking skin often develops when the skin’s surface becomes dry, dehydrated, and uneven, leading to visible flaking or rough patches. This may happen when the skin moisture barrier is compromised, which can make it easier for moisture to escape. Several factors can contribute to dry, scaly-looking skin, including:
- Environmental conditions (like cold or dry weather).
- Prolonged exposure to water (especially hot showers).
- Natural age-related changes in the skin.
A buildup of dead surface cells may also affect skin texture when the natural turnover process slows down. Supporting the skin moisture barrier with hydrating and reinforcing ingredients can help improve the appearance and texture of scaly-looking skin.
Why scaly-looking skin often gets worse in winter
Scaly-looking skin is more common in winter due to environmental changes that can affect the skin’s moisture levels. Cold air, low humidity, and indoor heating can all contribute to increased dryness, leaving the skin feeling rough or looking visibly flaky.
Winter is also a time when we’re more drawn to hotter showers and heavier clothing – all of which can further disrupt the skin’s surface and make it harder for your skin to retain hydration. These seasonal factors may lead to more noticeable roughness or tightness, especially in areas already prone to dryness like the arms, legs, and hands.
Hydrating, ceramide-infused skincare products for dry skin – such as gentle body moisturisers and body cleansers – can help improve the look and feel of dry, scaly-looking skin.
How to improve dry, scaly-looking skin: a step-by-step routine
To help you nourish dry, scaly-looking skin, explore our four-step scaly-looking skin routine:
- Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser
- Apply moisturiser immediately after cleansing
- Reapply moisturiser as needed throughout the day
- Exfoliate gently – between one and three times per week depending on your skin type
Read on, as we unpack each scaly-looking skin treatment step in more detail below.
Step 1: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser
Cleansing is the first step to help remove surface buildup and prepare the skin for hydration.
To choose the right cleanser for dry skin, consider a hydrating cleanser that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid. This hero ingredient absorbs moisture like a sponge (it can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water), which makes it a skin hydration powerhouse suitable for people with dry, scaly-looking skin.
It’s also important to pick cleansers that contain ceramides to strengthen the skin moisture barrier and retain hydration, as well as fragrance-free, dermatologically formulated products that won’t clog your pores. One option is our Hydrating Cleanser – a gentle, lightweight face wash that removes dirt and sweat buildup to leave your skin feeling clean and nourished.
Step 2: Apply moisturiser immediately after cleansing
Moisturising while the skin is still slightly damp can help lock in hydration.
Use a moisturiser that includes ceramides to help reinforce the skin moisture barrier, along with the hydrating benefits of glycerin and hyaluronic acid. This step helps the skin appear smoother and more hydrated throughout the day. For dry, scaly-looking skin, our Moisturising Cream is a rich cream suitable for normal to dry skin, while the SA Cream for Rough & Bumpy Skin is designed to soften very dry, rough skin and improve skin texture.
Step 3: Reapply moisturiser as needed throughout the day
Dry, scaly-looking skin may need more frequent hydration, especially in dry or windy climates. So be sure to keep a moisturiser on hand and reapply to areas that feel tight or rough. Choose a product that’s non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and doesn’t leave a sticky residue – this will allow for comfortable reapplication throughout the day.
For dry to very dry skin, our Intensive Moisturising Lotion is formulated with three essential ceramides to help fortify the skin moisture barrier.
Step 4: Exfoliate gently – between two and three times per week
Gently exfoliating the face and body can help improve skin texture by removing built-up surface cells. Opt for mild exfoliating ingredients such as salicylic acid or lactic acid, and avoid harsh scrubs or abrasive tools. Just remember to limit exfoliating dry, scaly-looking skin to up to three times per week to avoid disrupting the skin moisture barrier.
Scaly-looking skin: when should you see a dermatologist?
While dry, scaly-looking skin is often linked to dryness or seasonal changes, there are times when it may be helpful to seek professional advice.
If the roughness persists despite regular skincare, becomes uncomfortable, or is accompanied by changes in colour or texture, consider speaking with a dermatologist.
A skin expert can help assess the underlying cause and recommend a skincare routine tailored to your skin’s needs. This is especially important if the scaly-looking appearance occurs alongside other ongoing skin concerns, or if you're unsure about which products are best suited to your skin type.
Because dry, scaly-looking skin may be exacerbated by seasonal concerns, explore more tips for how to care for dry skin in winter with our expert guide