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Skin Disorders Which Cause Peeling

Skin is designed to be a waterproof barrier that keeps microbes and bacteria out while keeping fluids in. Unfortunately, skin can sometimes be cracked and peeling, failing in its job to protect. Peeling skin is indicative of a skin disorder and must be treated by a medical professional. Seek medical attention if you experience any peeling or think you might have any skin disease.

  1. Exfoliative Keratolysis

    • Exfoliative keratolysis is a common condition that causes the skin on feet and hands to peel. Frequently occurring in the summer, this condition usually begins with minor, air-filled blisters. When the blisters split open, the skin peels in a circular pattern. The new skin, where the old skin has peeled away, might be tender. Exfoliative keratolysis frequently occurs in children and young adults and can be exacerbated by soaps and detergents. It is often a recurring condition, but it is generally benign.

    Candidiasis of Skin Folds

    • Candidiasis of the skin folds, commonly just called candida, occurs more often in warm, moist climates. The areas that can be infected are the diaper area of infants, web space between fingers and toes, under the breasts and the groin area. When candida affects the toes, it is referred to as athlete's foot. Candida causes red, cracked, peeling skin in most areas, except for the feet. Athlete's foot makes the skin moist, white and peeling.

    Psoriasis

    • Psoriasis is a long-term disease that creates dry, cracked, peeling skin accompanied by scaly patches. The skin can be itchy and irritated. Severity can range from slight dandruff-like patches in the scalp to large areas of the body covered with painful scales. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder caused by overactive T cells. This condition can be triggered by stress, cold weather, injury and medications. Although no cure exists, psoriasis is cyclical, healing and flaring, and might even go into a temporary remission.

    Sunburn

    • Sunburn is a reaction to overexposure to the sun. The skin is red, tender, hot to the touch and sometimes swollen. Within a few days, the body begins to heal, and the damaged skin peels off. The peeling occurs in irregular patterns and is painless. Actively peeling skin before it sloughs off itself can cause infection.

    Ichthyosis

    • Ichthyosis is an umbrella group of skin disorders that are characterized by dry skin. Skin might be red, cracked, peeling and itchy. Dry skin can be caused by environmental issues such as detergents and soaps, sun exposure, hot water, air conditioning and heating and weather.

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