Ichthyosis Vulgaris – Scaly Skin

It’s the time of year when scaly skin may rear its ugly head. A skin condition known as ichthyosis vulgaris, scaly skin is most commonly found on the arms and legs. Ichthyosis vulgaris is a name is derived from the Greek word meaning “fish.”

It seems that there is a genetic tendency towards scaly skin. And while the condition often shows up in childhood, it can develop later in life. People of all races and both men and women are affected equally.

Scaly skin may be found on the fronts of the legs, backs or arms, scalp, back, forehead and cheeks. Scales range in size from 1 – 10 mm and can vary in color from white to gray to brown, with darker skinned individuals often having darker scales. Dry or cold weather may result in cracked palms and soles of feet. Humid or warmer weather often results in an improvement of scaling.

What To Do
If you have scaly skin, there are a number of ways to manage it:

• Restore moisture or hydration to the skin with creams and ointment. These richer formulations are better moisturizers than lotions, and they work best when applied just after bathing, while the skin is still moist. Impruv Cream is a barrier repair cream that contains ceramides (a natural moisturizing factor). I find it very soothing to my dry winter skin.
• Topical exfoliants that contain alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid or lactic acid help to remove the scales, leading to smoother and softer skin. Reversa Skin Smoothing Body Lotion, Lac Hydrin Lotion and Epilyt Lotion are effective formulations to consider.
• Products containing urea help to both exfoliate and moisturize. I like La Roche Posay Iso Urea.
• If skin becomes itchy, consider an over the counter cortisone cream for short term use. Cracked skin or skin that doesn’t respond to non prescription options may require stronger treatment. Check in with your physician.

Use gentle care on affected areas and for more information read our tips on dry skin treatments.