What is the ICD10 code and treatment for Xerosis (dry skin) dermatitis?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: June 6, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

The ICD-10 code for xerosis (dry skin) dermatitis is L85.3, and treatment should prioritize daily moisturizing with emollients and gentle skin care practices to restore skin hydration and reduce inflammation. When managing xerosis dermatitis, it is essential to consider the most recent and highest quality evidence available. According to the guidelines for the management of contact dermatitis, an update published in the British Journal of Dermatology in 2009 1, topical corticosteroids, soap substitutes, and emollients are widely accepted as the treatment for established contact dermatitis.

Key aspects of treatment include:

  • Daily moisturizing with emollients like petrolatum-based products, ceramide-containing moisturizers, or urea-based creams applied immediately after bathing while skin is still damp
  • Taking short, lukewarm showers or baths, using mild, fragrance-free cleansers, and patting skin dry rather than rubbing
  • For inflamed areas, considering the use of low-potency topical corticosteroids, although the specific recommendation for xerosis dermatitis should be guided by the most recent evidence and clinical judgment
  • Maintaining optimal humidity levels in the home with humidifiers to prevent moisture loss

It is crucial to focus on restoring skin hydration and reducing inflammation to effectively manage xerosis dermatitis, and treatment should always prioritize the use of gentle, non-irritating products and practices. While the study by 1 provides valuable insights into the management of contact dermatitis, the specific treatment approach for xerosis dermatitis should be tailored to the individual patient's needs and guided by the most recent clinical evidence.

From the FDA Drug Label

Uses temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations, inflammation, and rashes due to: eczema The ICD10 code for Xerosis (dry skin) is L27.0 for Unspecified dermatitis due to substances taken internally, but a more specific code is L27.1 for contact dermatitis due to drugs in contact with the skin and also L85.3 for Xerosis cutis (dry skin).

  • The treatment for Xerosis dermatitis may include topical hydrocortisone, as it temporarily relieves itching associated with minor skin irritations and inflammation, including eczema 2.
  • Key words: Xerosis, dermatitis, ICD10, hydrocortisone.

From the Research

ICD10 Code for Xerosis Dermatitis

  • The ICD10 code for xerosis dermatitis is not explicitly mentioned in the provided studies 3, 4, 5.
  • However, xerosis cutis (dry skin) is a common dermatological condition that can be caused by various factors, including external triggers, endogenous factors, or as a symptom of other diseases such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, ichthyosis, and diabetes 3.

Treatment for Xerosis Dermatitis

  • Basic emollients are recommended for treating xerosis cutis and diseases associated with dry skin, as they restore skin hydration and barrier function through the biophysical properties of their non-active constituents 3.
  • The use of lipids, physiological lipids, humectants, and antipruritics can help to restore the lipid lamellae, improve skin hydration, skin elasticity, and prevent itching 4.
  • Treatment of xerosis should seek to restore physiologic lipids in the epidermis and provide substances that facilitate epidermal differentiation 5.
  • Regular and ongoing emollient use should be the mainstay of basic therapy for xerosis cutis and diseases associated with dry skin 3.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

The management of dry skin with topical emollients--recent perspectives.

Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft = Journal of the German Society of Dermatology : JDDG, 2005

Research

[Xerosis: a dysfunction of the epidermal barrier].

Actas dermo-sifiliograficas, 2008

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.