TIP of the WEEK: Healthy Skin

Maintaining skin integrity is an important part of overall health in PWS. Winter months bring dry, cracked skin causing increased picking and discomfort.

1. Stay hydrated. Good hydration is the best way to keep skin healthy.

2. Use lotion daily. Make skin lotion a part of the daily routine. Scented lotion is also a great sensory technique.

3. Keep wounds covered and smooth. Talk to your doctor about what products can be used over open wounds to lessen the drive to pick once they start to heal.

Prevention is the best way to keep skin healthy. Once a crack or an itch starts it is very hard to keep your child from picking that area. Keep them hydrated and busy during the cold months coming up.

Patrice Carroll is Latham Centers’ world-renowned Prader-Willi Syndrome specialist. She works with Latham Centers’ residents with PWS, their families and consultants, continuously learning and teaching about PWS best practices.