flaking

Flaking refers to the process by which small pieces are shed from a surface or layer, resulting in a patchy or granular separation. The term is used across disciplines to describe material loss from biological tissues, protective coatings, and engineered materials. Flaking can be superficial or penetrate through several layers, and it may indicate normal shedding or a sign of an underlying condition or defect.

In dermatology, flaking skin is a common symptom of dryness and several skin disorders. It may accompany scaliness in conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis, and is also a feature of dandruff in the scalp. Causes include dehydration, environmental factors, contact irritants, and over-washing. Treatments focus on moisturization, gentle cleansing, and targeted therapies (for example medicated shampoos or topical anti-inflammatory agents) based on diagnosis.

In paints, varnishes, and other coatings, flaking denotes the loss of adhesion causing fragments to detach from the substrate. It can arise from moisture intrusion, surface contaminants, improper surface preparation, or thermal cycling. Prevention emphasizes proper substrate cleaning, priming, compatible coatings, and controlled curing. Repair typically involves removing loose material, preparing the surface, and re-applying a suitable coating system.

Flaking is also observed in materials science when protective metal or ceramic coatings delaminate, or when aged polymers become brittle and shed fragments. In each context, flaking often signals durability concerns and may require inspection, remediation, and root-cause analysis to prevent recurrence.