Which statement best characterizes xerosis (dry skin)?

Which statement best characterizes xerosis (dry skin)?

• A. Dry skin is best described by intense pruritus without visible scales.
• B. Dry skin commonly presents with scales or small cracks in a dry environment and is worse in winter.
• C. Dry skin is caused primarily by infection.
• D. Dry skin is always resolved with frequent hot baths.

Answer: (B)

Xerosis is dry skin from loss of skin hydration and lipids, often worsened by low environmental humidity. The best statement fits this pattern: dry skin commonly presents with scales or small cracks in a dry environment and is worse in winter. That combination—visible surface dryness with fissures or scales and a seasonal, climate-driven trigger—is the classic description. Intense itching without visible scales isn’t the defining feature of xerosis, and while itching can occur, the hallmark signs are rough, flaky skin with potential cracks in a dry setting. Dry skin is not caused primarily by infection. And frequent hot baths tend to dry the skin further rather than resolve it, so they’re not a correct remedy.

Xerosis is dry skin from loss of skin hydration and lipids, often worsened by low environmental humidity. The best statement fits this pattern: dry skin commonly presents with scales or small cracks in a dry environment and is worse in winter. That combination—visible surface dryness with fissures or scales and a seasonal, climate-driven trigger—is the classic description.

Intense itching without visible scales isn’t the defining feature of xerosis, and while itching can occur, the hallmark signs are rough, flaky skin with potential cracks in a dry setting. Dry skin is not caused primarily by infection. And frequent hot baths tend to dry the skin further rather than resolve it, so they’re not a correct remedy.