Ailments & Conditions

STDs That Cause Dry Skin: Types, Treatments & More

Syphilis and HSV

Syphilis is a common STD. It is caused by the bacterium called Treponema pallidum and can be spread through sexual contact. Commonly affected areas include the mouth, lips, anus, and genitals. After around 3 to 6 weeks after getting the infection, people with syphilis tend to develop scaly and dry rashes on the skin. The sign is more common on the soles of the feet or the palms of the hands. They tend to be not itchy. Other possible signs include flu-like symptoms, fever, or a sore throat. [3]

HSV stands for herpes simplex virus. This is an infection that may lead to herpes, which can affect different body parts. Symptoms often appear on the mouth and genitals. There are two forms of herpes simplex virus. HSV-1 mainly triggers oral herpes, which leads to fever blisters and cold sores on the face and around the mouth. HSV-2 mainly leads to genital herpes. In addition to dry skin, HSV may also cause itching, pain during urination, blistering sores, as well as other flu-like symptoms. [4]