Lichen sclerosis and pool water

Hi Robin, I find chlorine affects me. Others have said they use vaseline or such water proof barrier to prevent this but I haven't tried it.

Hi Robin

I live in the UK so terms and names of things may be different from those elsewhere.

I thought that pool chemicals were responsible for triggering LS flare-ups, but my gynaecologist repeatedly explained "LS is NOT an allergy". This knowledge has been really helpful.  It is not the chemicals themselves, but the consequence of the drying they produce which can assist flare ups of this auto-immune condition (it is not an infection/virus/allergy).  You can use a barrier such as vaseline before swimming, but I have found that careful, continual moisturising is the key.  Since I understood this I've had far fewer problems.  I avoid soap completely and use a Dermol cream to both wash with and moisturise.  I have also found coconut oil to be a very effective moisturiser (if you're not familiar with it, it is a buttery consistency at room temperature, easy to apply like a cream)

The same doctor suggested buying some mild over-the-counter cortisone cream for interim use - it is vastly less potent than the strong steroid cream you will have been prescribed and can be used to crack down on the slightest early sign of an itch without having to go through the whole 4-week rigmarole.

Try one thing at a time so that you know what works. It seems this is not the same for each sufferer. I haven't yet felt the need of making dietary changes, but if I do I will make each change on its own so as to be sure which foods might be the culprits.  Resist the temptation to make lots of changes all at once, then you'll have a clearer idea of what is helping and what is not.

Good luck, and let us know how you get on!

I don't do well in a swimming pool with chlorine.  Swimming in a clear lake is okay.  I imagine swimming in salt water might work well. 

?It has made a big difference for me to cut out sugar, gluten, and most dairy.  (cheese was a sure trigger with me) 

?And I have to stick to my baking soda baths and rinses.  Then apply coconut oil to moisturize.  When slacking I get my itch back and have to use a small amount of clobetasol again.   

My specialist at U of M said no contact with chlorine. No bleach in laundering of underwear or towels that I will Pat myself dry withair and I rinse myself with distilled water after my showers. Try rinsing yourself with cool distilled water after each bathroom visit if you're home and whenever you're uncomfortable. This helps me tremendously when I relapse. Also, Button Paste from the baby products aisle is great for a barrier.