What Causes Dryness, Flaking, and Peeling of the Skin? Oily vs. Dry Flaking
31 July 2026
What is Skin Flaking and Peeling?
Normally, dead cells on the skin's surface are regularly shed. However, when the skin barrier is weakened, this process is disrupted, and dead cells accumulate on the skin, appearing as crusting, flaking, and peeling. This condition can sometimes be accompanied by redness, itching, or irritation.
What are the causes of dryness and flaking?
1. Dry Skin
One of the most common causes, dry skin, typically develops due to cold weather, low humidity, prolonged hot showers, insufficient fluid intake, and incorrect product use. Research shows that reduced skin moisture impairs barrier function, increasing water loss, which then results in flaking.
2. Types of Dermatitis
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Atopic dermatitis: Seen in allergic individuals. Can cause itching, dryness, and flaking around the eyes and nose.
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Seborrheic dermatitis: Characterized by oily flakes on the scalp, eyebrows, and sides of the nose.
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Contact dermatitis: Develops as a result of contact with irritating or allergenic substances.
3. Eczema
Eczema is characterized by skin inflammation and barrier damage. It is frequently seen in sensitive areas such as the eyelids, chin, beard, and genital area. To read our eczema blog and get detailed information, click here.
4. Psoriasis
Accelerated cell renewal results in thick, silvery plaques. It manifests as dryness and flaking, especially on the scalp. To read our blog about psoriasis (psoriasis vulgaris) and get more detailed information, click here.
5. Vitamin Deficiencies
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Deficiencies in vitamins A, D, and B group can weaken the skin barrier.
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Especially in biotin (B7) deficiency, flaking is prominent on the face, scalp, and hands.
Where does flaky skin most commonly occur?
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Face: Sides of the nose, chin, and around the eyes
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Scalp: Along with dandruff, itching, and hair loss
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Eyelids: More sensitive due to their delicate structure
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Other: Elbows, knees, back, chest, genital area
Creams, lotions, and shampoos recommended for flaky skin
Blue Cap Cream and Foam Cream:
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Ceramide NP, AP, EOP repairs the skin barrier
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Piroctone olamine reduces itching and flaking
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Foam form is suitable for beard, scalp, and large areas
Click on the product name to review and purchase the product.
Minois Paris Moisturizing Shampoo:
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Gently cleanses with natural ingredients such as bitter orange blossom water, aloe vera, and wheat protein.
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Ideal for children and adults with sensitive scalps.
Blue Cap Shampoo:
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Formulated with piroctone olamine, menthol, and vitamin E
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Effective for problems such as flaking, itching, and redness on the scalp
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Ceramide content supports the barrier
Click on the product name to review and purchase the product.
Blue Cap Spray for Oily Seborrheic Dermatitis:
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Its ingredient, piroctone olamine, helps prevent the proliferation of fungi that cause seborrheic dermatitis.
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Thanks to its much stronger formulation compared to other forms, it provides effective results, especially on oily scalps.
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Its spray form makes it easy to apply and spreads evenly on the scalp.
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The spray form ensures controlled release of the active ingredient through the film layer it creates on the skin.
Click on the product name to review and purchase the product.
Seborrheic Dermatitis and oily flaking
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common chronic skin condition in both children and adults, typically affecting areas with high sebaceous gland activity such as the scalp, sides of the nose, eyebrows, and around the ears. This condition is characterized by oily flaking. The flakes can often be yellowish, sticky, and itchy. Although it may appear dry, the underlying cause is increased oil production and the proliferation of Malassezia fungi on the skin.
Seborrheic dermatitis can be categorized into two forms: dry and oily:
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Dry type: Flaky, fine peeling and mild redness
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Oily type: Yellowish, oily-looking flakes, more intense itching
This distinction is important for selecting the appropriate care products.
To read our blog about seborrheic dermatitis and get more detailed information, click here.
How to get rid of flaky skin?
1. Gentle Cleansing: Avoid harsh soaps and hot water; choose pH-balanced products.
2. Regular and Proper Moisturization: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, and urea-containing products reduce flaking and dryness. The effect of urea in reducing skin flaking has been scientifically proven.
3. Nutrition and Lifestyle: Vitamin support, adequate water intake, and avoiding allergens are important.
4. Avoid Irritating Products: Ingredients such as perfumes, sulfates, and alcohol can increase sensitivity. Cosmetic products should be compatible with skin type.
Flaking and peeling can be observed in babies.
Why do babies experience flaky skin?
Newborns may experience flaking due to temporary dryness or atopic dermatitis. In such cases, your doctor will recommend a suitable moisturizer.
If your skin is flaking, you should consult your pharmacist, family doctor, or a specialist dermatologist without delay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does skin flake and peel?
It occurs when dead skin cells accumulate more than usual and the skin barrier is weakened. Dryness, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitamin deficiencies are the main causes.
What can I do for flaky skin?
Gentle cleansing, regular moisturizing (products containing ceramides, urea, panthenol), avoiding irritating products, and adequate water intake are important. If necessary, consult a dermatologist or pharmacist.
Is flaking normal in babies?
Yes, flaking can occur in newborns due to temporary dryness or atopic dermatitis. However, it's always best to consult your doctor to confirm that this flaking is normal.
This article was written by Pharmacist Nil Eker from the Primum Pharma team.