I think a lot of older people tend to get this skin condition on their legs- really shiny smooth and dry and somewhat flaky or scaly. I suspect it's because they produce less natural skin oil as they get older- as we all do of course. Shins and legs get a lot of wear and tear during daily living.

I would recommend using a soft exfoliant or loofah cloth on your skin in a warm shower once a week, followed by rubbing some nice natural massage or body oil into the skin at least twice a week. The oil lasts days longer than water-based lotions. Rub in just enough to feel silky but not oily.
I get some general dry skin during the winter months, and I do this about once a week. I use Dr. Hauschka's Brich & Arnica body oil. It is a very light silky oil with a nice woodsy aroma, and feels slightly warming. If you take your time and massage it into your skin well (I apply it lightly all over once a week after a hot shower) then you'll feel silky for days afterwards with no dryness at all. It just reals really good. Works for me in preventing winter dry skin.