Ichthyosis vulgaris ("fish skin") results in severe dryness of the skin causing flaking and scaling, as displayed in this image. In ichthyosis vulgaris, there is a "dirty-looking," dry, flaky skin surface, as displayed in this image. This image displays the fish-scale appearance typical of ichthyosis. This image displays the fish-scale-like skin typical of ichthyosis. This image displays rough, dry skin on an extensive area of the trunk typical of ichthyosis. This image displays the bends of the legs, which are usually not affected with ichthyosis vulgaris.
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Scaly Skin (Ichthyosis Vulgaris)  A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

Picture of Scaly Skin (Ichthyosis Vulgaris): Ichthyosis vulgaris ("fish skin") results in severe dryness of the skin causing flaking and scaling, as displayed in this image. Divider line
Ichthyosis vulgaris ("fish skin") results in severe dryness of the skin causing flaking and scaling, as displayed in this image.
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Signs and Symptoms
The most common locations for ichthyosis vulgaris include:
  • Fronts of the legs (extensor surfaces of the legs)
  • Backs of the arms (extensor surfaces of the arms)
  • Scalp
  • Back
  • Forehead and cheeks, especially in younger children
The scales of ichthyosis vulgaris range in size from 1–10 mm and in color from white to gray to brown, with darker-skinned people often having darker scales. The legs are usually affected more than the arms. The creases on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet are prominent and often crack during dry or cold weather. However, the scaling tends to improve in more humid or warmer weather.

The following areas tend to NOT be affected:
  • Face
  • Front of the neck
  • Abdomen
  • Folds in front of the elbows (flexural surfaces of the arms)
  • Folds behind the knees (flexural surfaces of the legs)
Ichthyosis vulgaris tends to be itchy.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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