Down Syndrome

Children and adults with Down syndrome often experience skin conditions such as dry, rough skin (often referred to as xerosis), acne, folliculitis, atopic dermatitis and fungal infections. Some also experience seborrhea , hyperkeratosis, and syingomas.

Dermal Therapy’s urea based moisturizers actively penetrate skin to improve skin quality.

Atopic dermatitis is the presence of red, scaly, itchy skin that often appears in the first few years of life. It is most likely to appear on the cheeks, behind the ears, behind the knees, and in the elbow creases. Our non-prescription Dermal Therapy moisturizers applied daily (ideally after a bath or shower) help normalize skin. The thicker the skin, the higher the concentration of urea is recommended.

Seborrhea is a condition similar to atopic dermatitis, but usually looks greasy and scaly, appearing on the scalp and eyebrows.

A safe non-prescription method of exfoliating dead skin is to massage a small amount of the Dermal Therapy Extra Strength Body lotion into the scalp after a bath or shower. This will remove dry scaly skin and improve the appearance of the hair. Be careful to only apply a small amount to the scalp or the hair will become greasy.

Hyperkeratosis is very thick skin. It often occurs on palms and soles of the feet in people with Down syndrome.

Dermal Therapy Heel Care  or Dermal Therapy Finger Care  are non-drug methods for softening skin. 

Syringomas occur in 18% of adults with Down Syndrome, particularly females. Syringoma is a non-cancerous (benign) flesh or yellowish (1-3mm) bump, usually found in clusters on the upper cheeks and lower eyelids of young adults. They can also be found in other locations (i.e. chest, abdomen, armpits, forehead, genitals). Syringomas are completely harmless and are caused by the overgrowth of cells from sweat (eccrine) gland cells. They do not need to be treated, but could be removed through burning (cauterization) with an electric needle, excision, laser, dermabrasion, or cryosurgery. These removal methods can leave scarring.

The entire line of Dermal Therapy moisturizers will offer relief and help keep your skin healthy.