A universal problem, especially in temperate climates in the winter season, is dehydration of the skin. Untreated, it progresses from simple dryness to patches of pruritic, eczematous nummular dermatitis. Decreased humidity in an artificially heated environment, excessive bathing, decreased perspiration, and a decrease in natural skin oil contribute to the development of this dermatosis. There are individual variations in susceptibility to the condition, but it can develop in almost anyone. Although most common on the lower extremities, neither the trunk nor upper extremities is exempt. The condition is predominantly seen in adults, especially in older men. The symptoms vary with the severity of the condition. These may range from mild "prickling" discomfort to severe intractable pruritus. Early in the disease, examination reveals diffuse, fine dry scaling, with accentuation of the skin markings (Fig 1). If left untreated, the condition gradually evolves into erythematous nummular patches (Fig 2). The surfaces of