Skin Care Tips

  • Products containing urea, lactic acid or other alpha-hydroxy acids seem to help some individuals with ichthyosis. Some people get relief from pure lanolin, which is easier to spread when mixed with water. 
  • Applying lotion and creams to wet skin seems to work better than putting them on dry skin. The lotion tends to trap the moisture.
  • A pumice stone rubbed lightly on thickened skin may help loosen crust. Try this when the skin is wet and soft.
  • Give any new cream or lotion a reasonable trial. Sometimes a product needs to be used for two or three weeks before results are noticeable. You may want to test the cream or lotion on a limited area of skin, like an arm or a leg, first.
  • Try adding a few ounces of pure glycerin to your cream or lotion, and the skin will stay moist longer. Glycerin bought by the gallon is less expensive than smaller bottles. Most pharmacists will gladly special order a gallon for you.
  • To remove scales on the scalp, apply your favorite lotion and occlude with a shower cap or plastic wrap to bed. A morning shampoo, massage and brushing may help.
  • Body odor can be a problem for people with ichthyosis. Regular bathing is helpful. Adding two teaspoons of bleach or vinegar to one gallon of bath water may help. The problem seems to come from bacteria trapped in the dead layers of skin.
  • Bacterial infections can be a problem for some people with ichthyosis. Some individuals suggest adding two TEASPOONS of Clorox to one gallon of bath water. Carefully measure each gallon of water as you fill your tub and then mark the tub so that you can always fill with the same amount. For example, add 30 teaspoons of Clorox to 15 gallons of water.
  • More baths are better. Water helps make dry skin easier to remove and makes people with ichthyosis more comfortable. Some people find salt and oatmeal baths soothing. Be sure to apply lotion or cream immediately after gently toweling dry.
  • If you have problems with yeast infections in the groin area or feet, wear cotton underwear and cotton socks. Have your dermatologist prescribe the appropriate prescription medication for yeast or fungal infections. These problems need medical attention.
  • Thick scale can sometimes harbor so much infection, causing bad odors, that an oral antibiotic may be needed. Some people remain on low doses of antibiotics for long periods to control infection.
  • If you need to apply bandages, ask your pharmacist about some of the newest no-stick types.
  • Retinoids, a prescription oral medication, have provided some patients with dramatic improvement. These drugs need to be closely monitored by your doctor as there are serious side effects.
  • Natural fibers, such as wool or cotton, tend to wick moisture away from the body. You might consider cotton blends for clothing worn next to the skin. Some people with ichthyosis find rayon and other synthetics to be very irritating.
  • Air conditioning and heating can be very drying, especially for small children. Fresh air, fans and humidifiers may prove to be more comfortable.
  • Various cooling suits and devices are available for children and adults who cannot tolerate heat. For more information, please contact FIRST's national office.
  • Sunshine can work wonders for ichthyosis, but too much sun is dangerous. Always use a good sunscreen, when outdoors.
  • New treatments are available for chicken pox. Ask your pediatrician or dermatologist about these before your child is exposed to the disease.
  • Some cosmetics can conceal skin problems such as excessive redness. Check with your local department store for special cosmetics.
  • Dryness around the eyes can be particularly bothersome for people with severe ichthyosis. Ask your dermatologist for assistance with this.
  • Ear canals can be a problem when they become clogged with skin and wax. Be sure to have your child's hearing checked routinely and check with your ear, nose and throat specialist for ways to properly clean the ears.

The Foundation has a booklet that contains more than 100 different lotions, creams, and other products that have been recommended by ichthyosis affected individuals and their families.  Contact the office to receive a copy of this listing.

Neither the Foundation, its Board of Directors, nor its Medical & Scientific Advisory Board endorse any of the above products. Please consult with your physician before using any new product.

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