Due to the buildup of waste products, electrolyte abnormalities, and the consequences of decreased kidney function, kidney failure (sometimes referred to as renal failure) may cause a variety of skin changes.

Actually, at least one skin problem or color change affects 50–100% of people with renal failure. Dr. Naveen Reddy Avula, a consultant nephrologist at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology in Hyderabad, spoke with Jagran English about whether renal failure causes changes in skin color and what patients should be aware of.

Skin Alterations Associated with Kidney Failure

Itchy, dry skin (pruritus):

The accumulation of waste materials (such as urea) in the circulation, which irritates the skin, is often the cause of extreme dryness and itching, one of the most prevalent skin abnormalities associated with kidney failure.
White lines on the skin may result from excessive scratching.
Yellowish or Pale Skin (Uremic Frost):

Uremia is a disorder that develops in severe renal failure and causes waste products to build up in the blood. The skin may seem pale or somewhat yellow as a result of this.
In extreme situations, the skin may develop uremic frost, a crystalline buildup of urea and other waste materials.

Hyperpigmentation (darkened skin):

Skin darkening may result from uremic pigmentation, often in places like the hands, knees, and elbows.
Hormonal imbalances or waste accumulation might cause the skin to become golden or gray.
Mottled or Pale Skin:

A frequent side effect of renal failure is anemia, which may cause the skin to seem pale or mottled (blotchy and irregular in color).
Changes to the nails:

Muehrcke’s lines, which are often linked to severe renal illness, are horizontal white bands that might appear on nails or cause them to become brittle or discolored.

Calcium Buildup Beneath the Skin:

Calcium deposits may form on the skin of some people. A chalky discharge might be seen if these deposits penetrate the skin.
Perforating Dermatosis Acquired:

Mostly on the lower limbs, this disorder is marked by patchy lesions, dark pigmented regions, and hyperkeratotic papules.
How Can I Handle It?
Dryness, itching, and cracking may be lessened by using a moisturizer that contains 5% to 10% urea or emollients.
For anemia, iron treatment could be necessary.
Erythropoiesis-stimulating drugs, which produce blood, may aid in the treatment of low red blood cell counts.
It is crucial to use sunscreen or proper clothes to protect the skin from sunlight.