There are many different causes for dark dry skin, including basic skin problems to more serious medical conditions. The three main factors that can contribute to this type of condition are diseases and medical conditions, changes in the skin, and exposure to the sun. Even though all of these factors result in the same effect, which is dark dry skin, the actual effects of them can be extremely different. The medical problems that can cause this change in skin pigment can be serious at times, so if numerous spots or sections of the skin begin to change color it is suggested that a licensed medical practitioner be consulted so some tests can be conducted.

The first factor that will cause a change in skin color is simply from having exposure to the sun, causing dark dry skin to form. The rays from the sun cause the skin to change color, which is often times called tanning or burning. The reason that this happens is because the body will produce excess amounts of melanin in an attempt to fight off the heat. This causes the skin to change color, and in some circumstances, areas of the skin will become blotchy because the chemical is produced unevenly. Extreme amounts of exposure can cause permanent damage to the skin in this manner, including drastically increasing the chances of contracting skin cancer.

Basic changes to the skin can also be a cause for dark dry skin. As humans age, their bodies change, including how the pigments in the skin are produced. This can cause dark blotches all over the body and is no reason for concern because it is normal in most cases. However, changes in color can also occur due to poor skin health, as well as constant friction. These conditions can usually be reversed by taking better care of the skin and being more aware of what actions are taken during the day.

The final factors that can cause these problems are medically related. For instance, various skin diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis can cause dark dry skin. Dark dry circular spots, medically known as hyperpigmentation, can be caused by these medical conditions, as can white spots forming on people with darker skin. Inflammation and medications can also cause the same effects within the skin, so when a medical condition is the reason for the problem, a medical professional should be consulted in order to isolate the problem.