Sounds like you’re dealing with quite a challenge, managing your son’s ichthyosis vulgaris. It can be real frustrating, no doubt, when creams and moisturizers just don’t keep up. In Ayurveda, we often see dry and scaly skin conditions as being related to imbalances in vata and sometimes pitta dosha, you’re right. Vata, really, when it gets out of balance, can lead to dryness, roughness, and scaling, while pitta can contribute to inflammation and irritation. Getting the balance right is key.
You mentioned coconut and sesame oils, they’d indeed be great options. Coconut oil is cooling and might help soothe while adding moisture. A gentle daily application post-bath, when his skin is slightly damp, can help seal in moisture. Also, sesame oil, being nourishing and vata-balancing, can be warmed and used for regular massages. These oils can deeply penetrate and moisturize from the inside out.
Herbal remedies like turmeric and neem, they’re great too. Turmeric, with its anti-inflammatory properties, and neem, known for its detoxifying effect, can help externally and internally. You could make a paste with them or look for oils infused with these herbs.
Internally, consider if a herbal tonic like Triphala might be beneficial. It works as a gentle detox, which could help cleanse the system of toxins contributing to skin issues. But always consult with a qualified practitioner cuz kids have different needs.
For diet, you’d want him to avoid fried, spicy, and sour foods, which can aggravate vata and pitta. Encourage him to take more fruits and vegetables, which are naturally hydrating and pacifying to vata dosha. Hydration is key, so make sure he drinks enough water too.
A little consistency and patience are needed with Ayurveda. Often, regular abhyanga (oil massage) and a stable routine to keep vata in balance are helpful in the long term. I hope you find an approach that works - it’s really about listening to what his body responds well to.
