John's story
John was desperate, about to try methotrexate. But instead, he hit upon coal tar that worked. (January 2005)
My dishydrosis was so recalcitrant, I was considering taking
Methotrexate. I have had enormous success with coal tar preparations
though, over the counter. They tend to make my feet worse than better
during the first few days, but then there is slow improvement, and after
about two weeks my feet are clear. The results last for several weeks
and then the dishydrosis returns slowly. I cover the affected areas with
the ointment and then occlude them with saran wrap. It has been more
effective for me than using Clobetasol (super-potent steroid) under
occlusion for the same time period.
I have also been using fish oil capsules to reduce itching. I find that
I can either reduce or eliminate the itch for a several hour period with
them. Walgreen's brand has been the most effective for me.
I did try the hydrogen peroxide. I bought 30 volume hair color developer
with contains 30% hydrogen peroxide and few other additives. It is used in
the hair coloring process to lighten hair. So I did not buy the pool shock
that you recommended, because the developer was only a few dollars. I did
not find it particularly helpful, other than to replace itching with
burning.
The coal tar I use is MG217 ointment which I purchased at
Walgreens and I use under occlusion with saran wrap. I doubt I would have
seen the same results without forcing it into the skin under occlusion. I
also use Oxipor psoriasis solution because it is more concentrated - I use
it once or twice during the day to supplement the nightly occlusions.
Although it is intended for Psoriasis, whatever effect it must have on
inflammation is beneficial for our condition as well.
I think I used the peroxide for maybe a week or two. Go ahead and post that
the coal tar worked for me. But make sure to say it works noticeably only
when under saran wrap occlusion nightly for about a week or two.
Please note that this website does NOT recommend using H2O2 stronger than 27% directly on the skin. Stronger H2O2 can be diluted with water to the desired strength.
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Written by John R. © 2005
Updated 2-1-2005
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