If you or someone you love has lichen sclerosus, often called LS, you know firsthand how hard this condition can be. It is not well known to the public, but it is being diagnosed more and more, in women, men and even children.
What is Lichen Sclerosus?
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic skin condition. It most often affects the genitals, vulva, penis and the skin around the anus, but it can also show up on the breasts, abdomen and arms. It tends to follow a "relapsing and remitting" pattern, with flare-ups that come and go between calmer periods.
What are the symptoms of Lichen Sclerosus? What does it look like?
Symptoms of LS usually change with the stage of the condition. Early on, small, shiny white spots appear on the skin. Over time they can grow into larger white patches that become thin and very sensitive. These patches tear and bruise easily, which can be quite uncomfortable, and sometimes they scab or scar over. Other symptoms include:
- Itching in the affected area
- Burning
- Soreness and tenderness
- Bleeding
- Blisters or open sores on the skin
- Discomfort during sex
What causes Lichen Sclerosus?
The exact cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown. Many doctors believe it is related to the immune system, hormones, or both. The tendency to develop LS may run in families, and some evidence suggests it can appear on skin that was injured or scarred before.
Postmenopausal women are the most likely to develop LS, although men and children can develop it too. As a New York Times article pointed out, one of the challenges of lichen sclerosus is that people are often hesitant to talk about it, even with their doctor. That can delay getting the right care.
How is Lichen Sclerosus managed?
There is no cure for lichen sclerosus, although symptoms sometimes fade on their own, especially on the arms and upper body. LS on the genitals should always be looked after by a doctor, to help protect the skin from scarring and changes over time.
The most common prescription for LS is a very strong topical steroid cream. Many people find it helps, and many also worry about side effects, cost and using a steroid for years.
If you have LS, talk with your doctor about the right plan for you. Many people also look for a gentle, non-steroid option for everyday comfort between flares, and that is where emu oil comes in.
The Soothe My Lichen Sclerosus Kit
We put together a kit just for people living with LS: a complete daily routine for the itch, burning and dryness, gentle enough for vulvar skin. The 5-piece Soothe My Lichen Sclerosus Kit includes:
- Emu Oil Soap: a fragrance-free bar that cleanses without stripping, including intimate skin.
- Pure Emu Oil: 100% pure, fully refined, single-ingredient oil to moisturize delicate skin and help repair the skin barrier. Emu oil is rich in essential fatty acids, with a profile similar to the oils in human skin.
- Soothe My Skin: an everyday comfort cream with aloe, calendula and chamomile for the itch and burning of LS.
- Relief Balm: a rich balm with emu oil and arnica (traditionally used on sore muscles and bruises) for tender, sore skin.
- On The Go Stick: pocket size, so you can carry comfort with you discreetly when you are out and about.
Every product is free of parabens, sulfates, petroleum and synthetic fragrance. Many customers use the kit alongside what their doctor prescribes.
What customers with LS tell us
"I didn’t think such relief was possible. I am able to actually get sleep and to sit still in a chair."
Nancy H., Soothe My Lichen Sclerosus Kit
"During flares and non-flare every day use, keeps itch, irritation, and friction at bay."
Nicole C., Pure Emu Oil
"I like all of the products, Especially the soap. The creams don’t burn and are very soothing."
Verified buyer, Soothe My Lichen Sclerosus Kit
"My lichen sclerosus has made life difficult but this really helps."
Verified buyer, Soothe My Lichen Sclerosus Kit
Results vary.
Living with LS? Talk to your doctor, and find everyday comfort with Emu Joy.
If you want comfort for the itch and burning of lichen sclerosus, and a gentle, non-steroid routine you can use every day between flares, the Soothe My Lichen Sclerosus Kit was made for you. First orders, kits included, are covered by our 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
Shop the Soothe My Lichen Sclerosus Kit
Emu Joy products are cosmetics. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and they do not replace care from your doctor. View research and clinical studies published on emu oil.
