My legs are peeling and flaking
Given your age (78) and the tendency for skin to thin with age, there are some priorities and warning signs to watch for. What it might be (possible, not certain): - Chronic dry skin (xerosis). - Eczema or contact dermatitis. - Psoriasis (often with white scaling). - Superficial fungal infection (dermatomycosis), commonly associated with itch and moist areas. - Skin changes from venous insufficiency (especially if there is varicose veins, swelling or skin discoloration). - Skin findings related to a systemic condition. Priority concerns for you — in older people the thinner skin raises the risk of cracking, infection and wounds. Rapid worsening or the development of a wound is more concerning. Tell your clinician if you have diabetes, known circulation problems, or use regular medications. Brief home measures — Use a gentle, fragrance‑free cleanser and lukewarm water. After washing, pat the area dry and apply a rich emollient. Try cold compresses for itch and avoid scratching with fingernails. If you started a new topical product or detergent, stop it for a few weeks to observe any change. Keep the area as dry and clean as possible. When to see primary care or emergency (urgent signs): - Rapidly spreading redness, severe pain or hardening of the tissue. - Yellow‑green discharge, pus or a bad odor. - New ulcers, non‑healing cracks or deep wounds. - Marked swelling, significant pain, or systemic signs such as fever. What to expect at your visit — A physical exam; when indicated, the clinician may take skin samples (for e.g. fungal testing), order cultures, check blood glucose or request a vascular assessment. Referral to Dermatology and Venereal Diseases or to a specialist in venous disease is possible depending on findings. I am not a doctor and this is not a medical diagnosis.
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