Ichthyosis is a rare genetic skin disorder. Ichthyosis refers to a relatively uncommon and characterized by the presence of excessive amounts of dry surface scales. Ichthyosis is characterised by persistently dry, thickened, rough, fish scale skin. There are at least 20 varieties of ichthyosis, including inherited and acquired forms. It is affecting 1 in 6,000 males in the United States. It does not predominate in any specific ethnic background. It affects primarily males, although a few rare cases were reported in females. Symptoms include drying and scaling of the skin in the neck, upper trunk and scalp. The face takes on a “dirty-face" appearance splotchy dirty yellow or dark brown color with dark scales. Ichthyosis can develop at any age due to a number of medical problems, such as kidney disease.

Symptoms usually worsen or are more pronounced in cold, dry environments and tend to improve or even resolve in warm, humid environments. In general, all races may be affected in the inherited and acquired forms of ichthyosis. Treatments for ichthyosis often take the form of topical application of creams and emollient oils, in an attempt to hydrate the skin. Retinoids are also used for some conditions. Exposure to sunlight may improve or worsen the condition. 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. Do not rub the skin dry after you bathe. Blot your skin gently then apply an Alpha hydroxyacid lotions. Neostrata 15 AHA Body/Face Lotion is a very effective treatment for ichthyosis.

Ichthyosis Treatment and Prevention Tips

1. Use warm to cool water.

2. Do not take hot baths or showers, they dry out the skin.

3. Soap should not be used on your skin because it irritates and dries the skin.

4. Do not rub the skin dry after you bathe.

5. Blot your skin gently then apply an Alpha hydroxyacid lotions.

6. Neostrata 15 AHA Body/Face Lotion is a very effective treatment for ichthyosis.

7. Exposure to sunlight may improve or worsen the condition.

8. Lanolin creams and lactic acid and other alpha hydroxy acids may help to exfoliate and moisturise skin.