The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Emu Oil
Posted by Misha (Binghamton, New York, USA) on 01/26/2009
★★★★☆
For LS, I have been trying purple emu oil with good results. As they say this condition is related to autoimmunity problems, I have also been taken probiotics, which they say are good for calming an overactive immune system. I will keep the earth clinic community posted on my progress.
Vitamin E
Posted by Terri (Wisconsin) on 03/30/2021
★★★★★
I have found that the burning sensation I get from Lichen Sclerosus (biopsy diagnosed) is alleviated by Vitamin E oil! I just apply to my “hot” area as often as needed. Amazing relief. I have a steroid prescription too, but I'm concerned about using a product that tells you to use as little as possible. 😳
Ozonated Olive Oil
Posted by Elle (United States) on 05/12/2020
★★★★★
Hi All, First: thank you for all the help and advice, you are lifesavers. Second: the best thing I have found for LS is ozonated olive oil. I use it every other night and have NO symptoms and my red skin has turned a shockingly normal pink. I left my ozonated olive oil in the frig for about a month, scared to try it. It does burn at first, for about 10 minutes. It gets better each usage after because it is healing your sensitive skin! Good luck and good health to you all.
Dietary Changes
Posted by ANNA (Pennsylvania) on 08/23/2024
My husband left hospital 2 months ago--very very weak - he had anemia for the last 3 years and type 2 diabetes. His doctors were puzzled Why his RBCs were dropping (3.59 mln/ml in 01/24). His home diet for the last 2 months was a modified carnivore--mostly meat +some veggies in soup, scrambled eggs, but he likes to drink apple juice. He took bone marrow caps. He had blood tested last week. Blood sugar and cholesterol went down. A1c from 7.5 to 6.1. NO ANEMIA (RBC ARE 4.27) --still weak but improving.
Dietary Changes
Posted by Carol (Canada) on 02/06/2020
★★★★★
I have found diet extremely important for lichens healing. I eat a vegan diet with salmon, no sugar, alcohol or night shade vegetables, I also use apple cider vinegar and water sprayed on after urinating. I bath in baking soda every second night and I use only natural products for cleaning. Don't scratch. I am healing more everyday and have no itch.
Comfrey
Posted by Anna (Queens, Ny) on 09/25/2016
★★★★★
I cured the LS with a comfrey cream imported from Croatia. I suffered so much the whole last year that I did not want to live. My Croatian friend gave me the comfrey root based Croatian cream. It healed me. I don't have the itch and the inflammation anymore. I use it once or twice a day consistently.
Platelet Rich Plasma Injection Therapy
Posted by Ocean51 (Carmel, Ca) on 06/27/2016
★★★★★
After 5 years of suffering with Lichens Sclerosis, I must share what has given me relief and remission. My husband researched treatments and found an OB/ GYN in a neighboring county, who provides Platelet Rich Plasma Injection Therapy. This is an experimental treatment, and I am the 3rd patient she has treated with "PRP" for Lichens.
The 3 treatments with an out of pocket expense of $800 each have completely cleared all of my itching, Burning and white patches. Upon my follow up exam, my doctor stated she could not tell I had lichens! I do not have a reversal in vaginal tissue elasticity, but I believe my peri menopause contributes to that condition. My 3 outpatient treatments were completed in less than 2 hours each, and were non invasive. The process begins with your own blood draw that is put in a centrifuge for about 15 minutes. The platelet the rich plasma is drawn into a syringe and injected in the affected areas (with a large needle to protect the platelets) OUCH!, but the local helps a lot.
This 3 round treatment over 6 months completely cleared my lichens. No creams, steroids or prayers could do that. I was told to come back every 6 months, and that I may require more treatments. After a year I am still clear. This doctor was the first of 3 gynecologists to actually do a biopsy to confirm lichens sclerosis, I am forever grateful to her for taking the bold steps to help me.
FYI PRP is also known as the O shot and the Vampire Facelift, and is thought to restore healthy tissue and blood flow. Read up on it to see if this is an option for you. I know I would pay almost anything to rid myself of the agony of Lichens Sclerosis.
Sitz Baths
Posted by Wolf5alpha (Portland, Oregon) on 08/22/2015
★★★★☆
I have recently been diagnosed with lichen sclerosis. I have had severe itching and after trying many things which seem to relieve it for about a week and then it is like it develops some immunity to it, I tried vagisil. This has given me the most relief as a cream. But what has actually been helping to heal it and give much longer relief is sitz baths. I use some epsom salt, lavender, chamomile, comfrey, yarrow, and marigold, steep this in a sitz bag for a bit and add it to a very shallow warm bath. Then I add baking soda to the water and soak for 20-30 minutes. Doing this twice a day is best. This is still very new to me and I'm horrified to find out it is chronic and the damage it causes. I haven't tried the steroid cream yet but after reading the many replies, I'm very concerned about using it at all.
Coconut Oil, Homeopathy
Posted by Linda (Auburn, Ca) on 05/01/2015
★★★★☆
I was diagnosed with Lichen Sclerosis on April 16, 2015 after my OB GYN did a vulvar biopsy. I had been suffering for 20 months with symptoms but the current flare up has been the worst ever. My doctor prescribed the steroid, clobetasol, but I must be allergic to one of the preservatives because my symptoms became even more intense. I have stopped the steroids and I'm searching for some type of relief. What has been very soothing is using organic coconut oil before (used as a barrier) and after going to the bathroom. Two days ago I picked up a homeopathic remedy for shingles at the health food store that has greatly reduced the itching and pain. It did sting when I applied it so I have been diluting it with castor oil.
My question: Has anyone tried UV Light Therapy as a treatment for LS?? I had a horrific eczema outbreak on my legs and after using the UV Light Therapy, it completely sent away and has never returned.
Skin Cream
Posted by Vg (Sc, US) on 01/28/2015
Egyptian Magic All Purpose Skin Cream works as well (if not better) then the prescription Clobetasol. It has all natural ingredients so can be used long term with no bad side effects. My OBGYN said that it was ok to use. The thought of using a steroid cream for the rest of my life bothered me. Glad to have found something safe. Buy it at Costco (best price), Whole Foods or online. Just use as often needed.
LS and Hypothyroidism Connection
Posted by Queenie (California) on 08/19/2017
This comment is a little harsh, judgey and might not be true.
It is a very emotional thing, having LS and knowing that stress makes it worse. In fact there is "a going back". There is. I am not there yet, I have just discovered it. But hundreds of women that I have read from in the past week have said that they are experiencing NO symptoms and taking wheat sugar and processed foods out of their diet did the trick. No, I won't say cure- as that would cause an argument. But no symptoms. So there is a "over the rainbow" place for many women. We can't be so harsh online- every single body is different, and some heals faster then others.
Low Oxalates Diet
Posted by Sandra (Ottawa, Ontario) on 04/28/2012
★★★★★
I have had LS for a year now. I went on the Low Oxalate diet in September and noticed that the itching immediately began to subside (a HUGE relief considereing I was returning to work and hadn't been able to wear pants for the past 4 months). I had also been experiencing extreem fatigue and digestive issues, which went away within a matter of days. After about a month I was at a confrence and cheated by eating a sandwich and cookie. I was exhausted.
I switched up the low oxalate diet for a gluten free diet and found that the fatigue and digestive symptoms went away, the LS became gradually less itchy, and the white patches started to disappear. I have not had to use steroid cream for months and I have been able to resume a normal sex life. After a significant improvement I realized that while the dietary change was helping it was not the only answer. I had also noticed that the itching would be the worst when I was lying down or sitting for long periods of time so I started jogging. I started off with 2km and have worked up to 6km 3 times a week. I think that the extra blood flow may be what is helping, because I did do regular excercise before, but it was yoga which was much lower impact and much less demanding to the cardio-vascular system. I would like to mention that I have also not had athsma for months since changing my diet. Trying the low oxalate diet an was the best thing did for my LS.
Chemical Link to LS
Posted by Maria (Gippsland, Australia) on 12/06/2010
It was either last year or early this year there was a report on a TV show (Landline I think) about the amount of formaldehyde that is in imported clothes that are made overseas. 700 times (and no the 700 is not a misprint) the normal level of formaldehyde was found when they tested them. It is used to help prevent creases and prevent insect and rodent damage whilst in storage. So who knows what other chemicals are used as well. I know of many people (myself included) who cannot even touch new clothes or any new material. It used to take 2 or 3 washes before I could use anything new. I used to have my mum or a friend do the 1st wash for me and then we could have it in our laundry. It now takes 7 - 8 washes before I can touch them. This includes soakings in bi-carb soda before washing. The last pkt of knickers have been washed so many times and left out in the rain but I still cannot get them clear. So it looks like the pennies will need to be saved to buy organic underwear.
Vaginal Medication Link to Ls
Posted by Jami (Roanoke, Va) on 01/30/2010
I've just been diagnosed with LS, how fun. I have been treated many times in the past for yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. I believe you may be on to something BIG. I also believe that stress and perhaps past trauma/emotions may have an impact on what is happening now.
Vaginal Medication Link to Ls
Posted by Amy (Tucson, Az) on 02/22/2010
★☆☆☆☆
I was diagnosed with LS a few years back. Contrary to your theory I had never used any vaginal creams for any ailment.
Vaginal Medication Link to Ls
Posted by Jonimoso (Fraser, Michigan, Us) on 05/01/2011
I was diagnosed with Lichen Sclerosis 7 years ago. According to my doctor "no known cause no known cure" -- just take this prescription for the rest of your life and you'll never get better. I also thought it may be linked to use of products for vaginal candida which I used just about every other month for about 5 years before being diagnosed with Lichen Sclerosis. Struggled with vaginal candida for many years, but now am free of it. I used 1 teaspoon of dissolved ionic mineral salt in 1 ounce of water, followed by 1 liter of purified water daily for 3 weeks and have had no more candida and also, no more flare ups of lichen sclerosis. Can't say I'm cured, since I haven't seen a doctor after using it, but am extremely happy with the results. Also in the past, I have used organic coconut oil in the vaginal area (anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-fungal) for lubrication and sensitivity. IMPORTANT NOTE: Coconut oil breaks down latex condoms, so use polyurethane instead. Hope this helps.
Vaginal Medication Link to Ls
Posted by Mary (Encino, California) on 01/04/2012
I am 60 years old. I was diagnosed with LS about 3 years ago and prescribed clobetasol which seemed to keep it from progressing. About a year ago and about 6 months after I had a gyn exam, I was horrified to discover that my labia was all but gone, I had scar tissue covering my clitoris, and the hood was at least 50% fused.
I have been receiving UVB light treatments (excimer laser) twice a week at first and now once a week for almost a year. Plus I use the clobetasol 2 weeks on and 1 week off. My symptoms have completely reversed. The scarring/lesions are gone. It took a bit of effort to get my insurance company to pay for the treatments, but they couldn't deny the supporting research. The clitoris, hood, labia have returned to normal. Occasionally I have some white patches and itching on the week I'm off the clobetasol. I have also eliminated sugar, wheat, dairy, and artificial sweeteners from my diet for about six months, which is why I think I have been able to reduce the treatments to once a week.
In my research I found and visited a cosmetic gyn who developed a surgery to unbury the clitoris without damaging the nerves. His name is Dr. Ostrenski. He is located in St. Petersburg, Florida. Doctors comes from all over the world to study his technique.
Eliminating Dairy
Posted by Rob (Manhattan, New York) on 09/12/2010
Some herbs to address adrenal fatigue are, Ashwaganda, and Rhodiola.... I would add to that a good mushroom formula with Reishi... Or AHCC if you can afford it. Also the B12, B6 and Folic acid to low homocysteine.. You will notice a difference with the above... But most importantly, exercise, (yoga) and meditation (walking, breathing)
DMSO
Posted by mauisuzi (sequim) on 01/07/2023
Update on DMSO treatment above post:
DMSO was initially effective mixed with aloe vera but it didn't have lasting symptom management.
Next I mixed it with my DIY Tallow Balm and so far this compound is having better results. The DMSO is 99%. The Tallow Balm contains Castor Oil, Tallow and Comfrey Infused Avocado Oil. It's available on Etsy if you don't want to make your own.
Clobetasol
Posted by Melissa (TN) on 05/03/2021
★★★★★
On LS:
I have mine under control using a protocol found on a white paper from a doc in CA. It is:
20 min. hot bath every night for 6 weeks, immediately after, rub pea-size amount of clobetasol in for 90 sec. No less. Then 20 min Hot bath every other night for 6 weeks, immediately after rub cream in for 90 sec. Then 2x a week for life.
This has worked for me but I want it gone. On the relations part, idk cause I'm too worried to try.
I'm going to try some things I found today on here but wanted to post this for the lady who is having a hard time & can't get it under control.
The doc had a video showing how getting the thicker type skin down there hot via a 20min bath softens the layers then rubbing the cream in for 90 sec helps the cream Penetrate multiple layers. I have no itch. It's amazing & I'm very happy but I would really like to find a way to not have to use the cream at all.
Good Luck Ladies & I hope this helps someone.
M-
Dietary Changes
Posted by Robin (United States) on 05/07/2020
Hi Karen,
The Carnivore Code written by Dr. Paul Saladino has all the science/know how you could ask for. He also has a website with loads of info. Watch some of Strong.sistas youtube videos. Here is a link to one that describes what they eat in a day on the carnivore diet, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9C2O7F1UA4 .
They are a lot of fun to watch. They have been eating this way lots longer than myself. I'm so new and feel uncomfortable as I am such a beginner. The important thing here is, my crotch is normal now except for the scarring. It feels normal and behaves normal in every way. There are also lots of facebook pages on the carnivore diet; Women Carnivore Tribe, Carnivore for Beginners. I just found Strong.sistas and have learned a lot from them but you can get direct answers to your questions on the facebook pages. Finding out about all the toxins in plants to protect themselves from being preyed upon was an eye opener.
I've been organic and very healthy eating for years, not vegan tho but mostly salads with chicken or some sort of protein and a carb like sweet potato. You'll read a lot of healing stores from people who quit plants and went carnivore. It may not be for everyone but my LS took a quick nose dive and has not returned. My eczema is nearly all gone, just discolered skin. Lots of other subtle healings going on and I intend to stick to this diet, at first, for 3 months to see but the improvements are just great so am sticking to this diet for at least a year.
Good Luck on your journey and if you have LS, I pray you manage to get rid of it!
Dietary Changes
Posted by Deaanna (Illinois) on 04/06/2023
Hi Robin, I too am trying the Carnivore diet. So far the changes I have noticed is my knee's don't hurt so bad. I was getting ready for knee replacement but now I am going to keep eating carnivore. The everyday pain and inflamation is gone. I watch Dr. Ken Barry on Youtube and also Dr. Anthony Chaffee. They will tell you all you need to know. They have been on the diet like for 20 years and their vitals are excellent.
Dietary Changes
Posted by Madelyn (Idaho) on 04/09/2023
This is incredible information and I wish it were shared more mainstream. I've recently begun learning more about the carnivore diet, so I was happy to read your post.
Dietary Changes
Posted by beverly (Texas) on 03/24/2024
I did not see a Dr. before your name. I think people need to investigate the carnivore diet for themselves. It does not have to be a long term solution but has many benefits.
Lyme Disease Connection
Posted by Lora (Dc) on 04/20/2017
★★★★★
I have recently learned that Lyme disease can also be a cause because of its autoimmune properties
Lyme Disease Connection
Posted by Frances (Cabarlah, Qld.) on 05/19/2018
If you do a search for Borrelia and Lichen Sclerosus, you will find articles making the connection.
Platelet Rich Plasma Injection Therapy
Posted by Lisa (New Jersey) on 01/18/2024
★★★★★
Stem cell PRP is the only thing out there that comes close to a cure for LS. Dr. Nathan Newman in Beverly Hills California has performed this technique on over 200 LS patients all 100% show improvement or go into complete remission for years. See his Yelp. People confuse the two techniques:
PRP: platelet rich plasma: They also call it the O-shot or Vampire shot. The technique is, they draw your blood, spin it down and extract the plasma which rich with platelets. Then they inject the plasma into the affected areas. The platelets release multiple growth factors that stimulate the regeneration of health tissue in the genital area. It last for about 6 months to a year, however some patients go into complete remission with just PRP alone.
Stem and PRP therapy: is combo of PRP and stem cells. They first inject the PRP into the LS areas, then do a small liposuction removing fat from one area of the body (e.g. tummy) and inject it into the LS areas. The fat contains stems cells that can turn into the surrounding tissue. These stem cells also release anti-inflammatory chemicals prevent further inflammation. Also the PRP stimulates the stem cells to grow, and they continue to grow and take over the whole area bringing the genital tissue back to normal. The immune system does not recognize these new cells and therefore stop attacking the area rendering the patient ASYMPOTOMATIC! IT WORKS!
Colloidal Silver
Posted by Hannes (Vienna) on 02/03/2023
★★★★★
Collodial Silver works wonders for me and my Lichen Sclerosis, I don't wanna miss it anymore!
Coconut Oil, Homeopathy
Posted by Ref (Iowa) on 09/11/2016
★★★★☆
I also have found coconut oil to be very helpful and it does not have the odor or expense associated with the creams for LS sold on Amazon. Also, I am afraid of using too much clobetasol proprionate and allowing it to thin the skin. Coconut oil lets me to spread the steroid on thinner and use it less frequently.
Dietary Changes
Posted by Ingrid (Belgium) on 04/06/2017
So strange, what a disease, a hope giving post and then silence. Disapppointing
LS and Hypothyroidism Connection
Posted by Lynn (Phoenix, AZ) on 01/25/2015
I feel like I could have written your posting........ ;(
Honey
Posted by Jennifer (Warwickshire) on 02/14/2014
★★★★★
I have found using a good quality honey applied topically to the area a few times a day until the symptoms are relieved does reduce itching and irritation.
Frankincense Oil
Posted by Mama To Many (Tn) on 08/04/2018
Mary,
The bad reaction could be that the oils and water didn't mix well and you got essentials oils straight into your skin.
Baking soda does some as it is too alkaline for sensitive skin.
You might try to keep to a single ingredient to make sure it suits your body. Perhaps just castor oil to start.
~Mama to Many~
Shea Butter
Posted by Tiya (Bellflower, California) on 04/01/2013
★★★★★
I have has LS for 5 years now and I'm only 16 years old. So far no doctor has been able to figure out a cure to LS. I've done my own experiments and I've been using Shea Butter for 3 years and I rarely have flare ups or any itching. Though I notice I have more discharge but it's worth not having unbearable itching.
Eliminating Wheat
Posted by Elizabeth (New Zealand) on 02/27/2015
★☆☆☆☆
Fairly irrelevant but no, 90% of the wheat is not roundup ready. It is desiccated before harvest with round up but GMO wheat, though it exists is not approved for planting. What is out there is an accidental escape from test plots. I highly recommend avoiding any contact with RoundUp if you have any autoimmune issues at all, ever, under any circumstances. But, if Monsanto asks, I didn't say that.
Witch Hazel
Posted by Alea (Las Vegas, Nv) on 02/11/2015
I clean with Witch Hazel Wipes (courtesy of VA dr) and using diluted Apple Cider Vinegar. Hopefully I can cure self using these simple things. Four years is too long to be itching and having skin tear and bleed. Been celibate well over four years!!!!!
Essential Oils
Posted by Karla (Nevada) on 08/04/2016
A major contributor to any autoimmune issue is gut dysbiosis... an imbalance of bad bacteria/yeast (too many) to the beneficial bacteria. Since yeast (candida) is part of the "imbalance", ridding your body of yeast is a great step in mitigating/reversing LS. I take Oregano essential oil internally (3-5 drops in a capsule), 2-5 times/day. Oregano oil is the number one "fungus killer".... got rid of the fungal infection on my husband's feet (thick yellow toe nails are an indication of a fungal infection) when used topically.
Oregano oil is a "hot" oil... it should be diluted 10:1 with a high quality vegetable oil when starting topical use.... see how you tolerate it...everyone is different. If you experience red, itching skin, dilute more or discontinue use if very bad.
I would NEVER put Oregano oil (even diluted) near my vaginal area... it hurts to even think about that... which is why I take it internally.
Again, 100% pure essential oils are mandatory for internal use.
Low Oxalates Diet
Posted by Healthygirl110 (Sacramento, Ca) on 02/18/2012
★★★★★
I've been able to reverse Lichen Sclerosis by going on a Low Oxalates diet. Steroid creams do not work. After being on a low oxalates diet within a month my LS has reversed by 50% and still healing everyday! I hope this others -- I never thought in a million years I could reverse LS but it's possible. You can also check out Vulvar Pain Foundation online with similar resources. Good Luck!
