Dry Skin

Common signs

These descriptions can help you understand and record what you notice. They cannot establish a diagnosis on their own.

• Tight, rough-feeling skin +

  Skin that feels tight after washing and rough to the touch, with a dull surface. First review whether hot showers or harsh cleansers are involved; if tightness persists despite gentler care, it may point to depleted internal fluids.

• Visible flaking or peeling +

  White flakes you can see on your calves, arms, or face, often dusting dark clothing. Seasonal flaking in autumn and winter is common; heavy flaking year-round or flaking with redness warrants a doctor's look.

• Itching that invites scratching +

  Dry patches that itch and beg to be scratched, then flake more afterward. Track when the itch peaks — itching that clearly worsens at night often tracks with blood-deficiency dryness; intense itch with broken or weeping skin needs medical care.

• More noticeable fine lines +

  Fine lines around the eyes or on the backs of the hands multiplying or lingering long after you smile. Lines that ease with moisturizer usually mean simple dehydration; if dry mouth, warm palms, or night sweats come along, depleted Yin fluids may be involved.

• Tightness that worsens after washing +

  Every wash leaves skin feeling stretched until you moisturize immediately. That signals a fragile skin barrier — switch to short, lukewarm washes and moisturize right after; if there's still no improvement, consider addressing it from the inside through constitution-based care.