Ichthyosis

 I.          Definition:
 
         Ichthyosis is a skin disorder which causes the formation of dry, fish-like scales on the skin's surface.  The condition often begins in early childhood and is usually lifelong.
 
 
II.          Cause:

• Usually inherited from one's parents.    

 

• Ichthyosis worsens in cold dry weather.

 

• People with ichthyosis have a defect in their skin which causes it to lose moisture.  We do not know what this defect is.

 
 
III.          Treatment:

• Do not take hot baths or showers, they dry out the skin.  Use warm to cool water.  Soap should not be used on your skin because it irritates and dries the skin.  You should use the soap substitute Cetaphil lotion which is available from the pharmacy without a prescription.  

 

• Do not rub the skin dry after you bathe.  Blot your skin gently then apply lubrication such as Vaseline, Aquaphor, or Moisturel.

 

• The doctor can prescribe a lotion for your skin which will dissolve the scales and will increase the moisture content of your skin.

 

• There is no cure for ichthyosis.  This is a life-long condition which can be managed or controlled.

 

• Living in a warm climate often improves ichthyosis.