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In general, the goal in taking care of a child with ichthyosis is to hydrate (moisturize) the skin, hold in the moisture, and keep scale thickness to a minimum. But remember – ichthyosis is different from person to person.  Two people with the same type of ichthyosis may have very different expressions of the condition and their response to the similar treatments may be very different as well.  What works well for one person may not work well for you or your child.  For instance, a lotion that works wonderfully for one child may be painful and even harmful for your child. 

Your dermatologist and pediatrician are, of course, excellent sources of information. But don’t forget a third professional - the pharmacist. A good pharmacist can make life much easier for a family dealing with ichthyosis. He or she can offer suggestions, keep you informed about new products, place special orders for you, and offer you discounts for products you buy in bulk.

In time, you will become the expert in the practical care of your child.  You will develop your own regimen by consulting with doctors, talking to other parents of children with ichthyosis, and experimenting on your own.  You can keep abreast of what other people are using by following the Foundation’s quarterly newsletter, Ichthyosis Focus, and by interacting with other parents through the Ichthyosis Support Network.  Always check with your doctor before changing your routine or trying a new product, even if another parent swears by it.

In the following sections, we have tried to offer some general guidelines on skin care.  These are only guidelines.  You, your pediatrician, and your dermatologist should ultimately design your child’s skin care regimen.