Symptom Checker

Dry and Cracked Skin

Dry skin happens when the outer layer of skin loses too much moisture. The skin can become rough, flaky, itchy or cracked.

Cold or dry weather, frequent bathing, hot water, harsh soaps and low humidity commonly cause or worsen dry skin. Eczema and some other skin or medical conditions can also contribute.

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AAP Guide to Dry and Cracked Skin

The AAP guide below explains how to care for dry skin, which moisturizers help, and when dryness may be eczema or another skin problem.

AAP Symptom CheckerDry skin

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

The skin cracks deeply, bleeds or causes significant pain.
Itching is severe or interferes with sleep.
Areas become red, weepy, crusted or increasingly swollen.
Basic skin care is not improving the problem.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

Your child has severe swelling, trouble breathing or another life-threatening allergic reaction.
Your child appears severely ill with a rapidly spreading skin infection.

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Hours, addresses and directions

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

Dry and Cracked Skin

AAP Guide to Dry and Cracked Skin

When to see a doctor

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

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