The stratum corneum is only a part of the epidermis, which is a thin layer of skin over most of the body. In some places, such as the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet, the epidermis is naturally thick, with the stratum corneum providing extra protection from impacts and abrasions. The epidermis may also be thick and hard in excessively dry areas. Disorders of the superficial skin layers involve the stratum corneum and deeper layers of the epidermis and range from those causing temporary discomfort to those causing chronic disabilities. Dry Skin Dry skin is common, especially in people past middle age.
Common causes are cold weather and frequent bathing.
Bathing washes away surface oils, allowing the skin to dry out. Scaling most often affects the lower legs. Ichthyosis also results from nonhereditary disorders, such as leprosy, underactive thyroid, lymphoma, AIDS, and sarcoidosis. The key to treating simple dry skin is keeping the skin moist. Taking fewer baths allows protective oils to remain on the skin.