It is caused by water retention in the lower leg due to impaired blood flow in the veins. Women are more likely to get this than men. People with this problem tend to scratch, causing bruises, ulcers, and more damage to the leg. Leg elevation, elastic bandage wraps, and sometimes treatment with medications to cause water loss can help. In some cases, antibiotics may be needed.
Exfoliative dermatitis is excessive peeling or shedding of the skin.
About 75 percent of people with this are over age 40. Women are twice as likely as men to develop this type of dermatitis. The skin may feel tight, or hair may be lost in the area. Some causes include scarlet fever, leukemia, or drug reactions. Treatment with cortisone may help.