Causes of Generalized Exfoliative Dermatitis
The root cause of exfoliative dermatitis is a disorder of the skin cells. The cells die and shed too quickly in a process called turning over. The rapid turnover of skin cells causes significant peeling and scaling of the skin. The peeling and scaling may also be known as sloughing.

1. Underlying conditions
Many people who already live with chronic skin conditions, including autoimmune diseases, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and eczema, can also develop exfoliative dermatitis.

2. Drug reactions
Adverse reactions to a variety of drugs can also contribute to massive skin peeling. Drugs that may produce this condition include:

sulfa drugs
penicillin
barbiturates
phenytoin (Dilantin) and other seizure medications
isoniazid
blood pressure medications
calcium channel blockers
topical medications (medications put on the skin)