For anyone, having flaky, dry skin around the pubic area can be concerning. Other symptoms that may indicate certain medical conditions may accompany it. Although figuring out the underlying cause of dry skin is crucial, there are some at-home remedies for the condition’s symptoms. This article will explain the possible causes of dry skin and provide treatment options.
Key takeaways:
- Dry skin is caused by a decrease in the skin’s lipid and water content.
- In the pubic region, dry, flaky skin is typically accompanied by other symptoms.
- Vaginal infections, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis are frequently cited as causes of dry, flaky skin in the pubic region.
- Self-care, emollient use, and addressing the underlying cause are the recommended treatments for dry, flaky skin in the pubic region.
Dry skin
The skin is the largest organ of the body. It serves as a barrier against the environment and is essential in defending humans against dangers. Dry skin is the consequence of damage to the skin barrier caused by the skin’s natural lipids being depleted and its water content being reduced.
Symptoms
Dry skin is not the only sign of deficient moisture and oil in the skin. Other symptoms that patients observe on their skin include:
- Rough texture
- Itchiness
- Irritated skin
- Patches or flakes that peel off
Dehydrated skin can also crack, which may result in bleeding.
Who develops excessively dry skin?
Some people are more likely to have dry, flaky skin. The risk factors include:
- Aging. Skin sebum production reduces with age and dry skin is more common in middle aged or older people.
- Vitamin deficiency. Vitamins A, B, D, E, and minerals, such as zinc and iron, are vital nutrients for the skin barrier. If a person lacks these nutrients due to a poor diet or eating disorders, this can result in drier skin.
- Smoking. Smoking accelerates the aging process in the skin, which results in a decrease in sebum production and drier skin.
- Medications. Taking statins, retinoids, or diuretics can have a drying effect on the skin.
- Poor work conditions. People who work in an environment where they must be in contact with harsh chemicals can have a damaged skin barrier that results in skin allergies or drying. This can happen in the pubic area, too.
- Health conditions. People with thyroid or kidney disease, and diabetes are more likely to have dry skin. Hormonal changes during menopause can also cause excessively dry skin.
Causes of dry skin in the pubic area
There are several medical disorders that can manifest as a dry, flaky, scaly pubic area, some of which are mentioned below.
Contact dermatitis
Sweat, lubricants, tight-fitting synthetic underwear, and scented hygiene or sanitary products can all irritate the skin in the pubic region. This typically shows up as dry, itchy, irritated skin where the irritant came into contact with the skin. The best ways to treat contact dermatitis are to avoid irritant products and practice good hygiene. In order to lessen inflammation, doctors will occasionally recommend ointments that contain steroids.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a condition that doesn’t have a determined clear cause. Still, genetics and hyperactive immune system play a role. The rapid turnover of skin cells can result in irritated and itchy skin scales. Anywhere on the body, including the pubic area, can have afflicted skin. It can cause nail changes or even joint pain. Psoriasis is usually treated with emollients, steroid creams, or biological drugs.
Vaginal infections/ STIs
Infections of the vagina, such as trichomoniasis, yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, genital herpes, and pubic lice, can result in inflammation, dryness, and itching of the vulva and the pubic region. In the case of vaginitis, dry skin is accompanied by more prominent symptoms, such as a change in the discharge, foul smell, discomfort during sex or urination, and painful sores. Vaginal infections are treated with antibiotics or antifungal drugs.
Lichen sclerosus
Lichen sclerosus is associated with immune system processes, even though its exact cause is unknown. This condition typically affects the vulva’s skin in females. It causes patchy, discolored skin, itching, skin tightening, and discomfort. This condition has no known cure. Using the recommended steroid ointments and moisturizing creams will help to relieve the symptoms.
Risks of dry flaky skin
People with dry skin are more likely to get an infection. It is insufficient to protect against dangerous infectious agents with a compromised skin barrier. Dry skin often peels and cracks. These fissures serve as an infection’s entrance.
Additionally, flaky, cracking skin can cause itching. Long-lasting scarring or hyperpigmentation can be caused by rough skin rubbing, skin irritation, or skin infections.
Furthermore, dry, atopic skin is linked to higher chances of having or developing other allergies or asthma. Individuals frequently experience food allergies that can cause anaphylactic shock or contact dermatitis.
Treatment
If a person is suffering from persistent dry flaky skin in the pubic area and it affects day-to-day life, it is recommended to consult a medical professional. Finding the source of dry skin and selecting an appropriate treatment plan that works for each individual are crucial.
When treating dry, flaky skin in the pubic region, a doctor’s instructions should be followed in order to eliminate the underlying cause, as well as self-care.
Natural remedies
People can take steps at home to lessen the symptoms and prevent them from recurring. Some examples include:
- Moisturizing regularly. Emollients have the ability to lessen dry skin’s symptoms. For optimal effects, apply fragrance-free moisturizers several times a day to damp skin.
- Wearing loose-fitting cotton clothing. Tight, synthetic underwear can irritate the skin even more.
- No hot baths. Because it removes natural oils from the skin, hot water can make the skin even more dry. It is advised to take five minutes or less, warm, and not overly hot showers.
- Proper hygiene. It is appropriate to use mild, fragrance-free cleaning agents. Douching, the use of scented personal washes, and the use of sanitary products are not recommended.
- Gentle touch. It is crucial to refrain from scratching the skin or vigorously massaging the area with a towel. Use gentle pats to apply each product.
- Hydrate. It is advised to drink a lot of water to maintain the body’s appropriate levels of hydration. Caffeine and alcohol consumption can cause skin dehydration. In addition, some people find it enjoyable to increase the humidity in their homes with humidifiers.
- Vitamins. Supplementing with minerals (iron, zinc), vitamins A, B, D, and E, and omega-3 fatty acids can help decrease inflammation and enhance skin appearance.
A vaginal infection, skin disorders, or allergic reaction can all cause dry, flaky skin in the pubic area. It is recommended that you speak with your healthcare provider to find the best course of action for you.