
How to Self-Treat Ichthyosis
Disease description:
I noticed two brown, scaly patches on my arm while showering. After visiting a dermatologist, I was diagnosed with ichthyosis. How can ichthyosis be treated on my own?

Self-care for ichthyosis mainly includes the following aspects:
1. Keep the skin moisturized: Use oily skincare products, such as glycerin-based moisturizers or creams containing ingredients like urea, salicylic acid, or lactic acid. After application, plastic wrap may be used for localized occlusion to promote full absorption of the product, maintain soft and supple skin, reduce scaling, and lock in moisture and nutrients.
2. Avoid excessive bathing: Patients with ichthyosis should avoid frequent bathing and refrain from using harsh cleansers such as soap to prevent worsening of skin dryness. After bathing, the body should be dried promptly and moisturizer applied.
3. Supplement vitamin A: Patients with ichthyosis often have low serum levels of vitamin A. This can be supplemented by consuming foods rich in vitamin A, such as carrots, butter, sweet potatoes, fish liver oil, leafy vegetables, and pork liver, or by taking vitamin A supplements under a doctor's guidance.
4. Improve living environment: Try to live in a warm and humid environment, use humidifiers to increase indoor humidity, and avoid cold, dry conditions that may irritate the skin.
5. Pay attention to skin care: In winter, increased water loss from the skin may worsen symptoms, so special attention should be given to skin care, avoiding excessive scrubbing or scratching of the skin.
If symptoms are severe or do not improve, seek medical attention promptly.