Asteatotic or xerotic eczema tends to occur in people over the age of 60, but is not unknown in younger adults. The dry skin condition has a ‘crazy paving’ appearance of skin flakes, often with reddening/erythema between them. It can appear anywhere on the legs and arms, but will usually always be present on the shins.24,25

It is associated with a decrease in oils on the skin surface. Factors include excess use of soaps/cleanser, bathing at too high a temperature, scrubbing the skin or using an abrasive towel. It can increase with central heating and the low humidity of a cold winter.