What does scaly skin look like?

Scaly skin can appear in different ways depending on the underlying cause. Here are some common characteristics of scaly skin:

1. Dryness: Scaly skin is often dry to the touch and may feel rough or like sandpaper.

2. Flaking: Scales are typically small, thin flakes of dead skin that peel off or shed from the affected area.

3. Patchy: The scaly patches can be scattered or widespread, and can vary in size.

4. Color: Scaly skin may appear white, silver, gray, or red, depending on the cause.

5. Itching: Flaky skin can be itchy, although the severity of itching can vary.

6. Scaling Pattern: In some cases, scaly skin can follow a characteristic pattern. For example, in conditions like psoriasis, scales may form thick, silvery plaques on the skin.

7. Location: Scaly skin can affect different parts of the body, but it commonly occurs on areas such as the elbows, knees, legs, arms, hands, and scalp.

If you experience scaly skin and other concerning symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.