Diagnosing dry skin involves a thorough medical history and physical examination by a dermatologist. Important diagnostic steps include:
- History: Reviewing the patient’s family history, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors.
- Physical Examination: Assessing the skin’s appearance, distribution of dryness, and any associated symptoms.
- Additional Tests: In some cases, skin biopsies or other tests may be necessary to rule out underlying conditions such as ichthyosis or eczema.