New Hope for Lichen Sclerosus: Insights from Silicone Treatment Studies

02/07/25 • 40 min

Episode Description:

Welcome to the Lichen Sclerosus Podcast brought to you by the Lichen Sclerosus Support Network. I'm your host, Kathy, and today we’re excited to bring you a conversation with an amazing researcher, Leia Mitchell. If you’ve listened before, you might recognize her from past episodes. This time, we’re diving into a new possible treatment for Lichen Sclerosus.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Insights into two groundbreaking studies on silicone-based treatments for Lichen Sclerosus.
The science behind silicone’s effects on collagen production and skin rejuvenation.
What makes this new treatment non-steroidal and why that matters.
Eligibility requirements and what participation in the study entails.

Special Guest:

Meet Leia Mitchell, a passionate and knowledgeable physician assistant with extensive experience in Lichen Sclerosus treatment and clinical research. Her expertise and dedication make her a valuable voice in the LS space.

Key Moments:

1:49 – Discussion of two studies: one completed and one actively recruiting participants in Florida, DC, and NYC.
3:35 – Leia explains how silicone aids collagen production and benefits skin conditions, including burn victims.
5:21 – Application process: The silicone gel is easy to use—dab and rub gently over affected areas.
6:26 – Leia highlights the need for effective LS treatments and shares how she became involved in the study.
7:14 – The appeal of non-steroidal treatments and how Leia encountered this promising solution.
9:24 – Study requirements: participants must have an active LS diagnosis, abstain from steroids or other topicals, and undergo pre- and post-study biopsies.
13:10 – The study is initially limited to five participants, but a larger trial may follow pending positive results.
15:09 – Leia shares her excitement for the study’s potential outcomes and outlines the 10-week process, which includes subjective results announced after publication.
34:01 – Leia discusses the goal of FDA approval to make the treatment accessible and affordable for patients through insurance coverage.

Connect with Us:

Visit the Lichen Sclerosus Support Network for more resources: lssupportnetwork.org

Get more information on the study at https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06662942?cond=stratamgt&rank=2

or email the CVVD at [email protected]

Mentioned in this episode:

2025 Wholistic Healing Summit

Join the Lichen Sclerosus Support Network for our 5-day virtual event! Connect with experts, find community, and gain practical tools to thrive. Sessions include: new treatments, intimacy, self-care, and more. May 12-16, 2025. Virtual event. Register now: https://lssupportnetwork.org/whs

Episode Description:

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Insights into two groundbreaking studies on silicone-based treatments for Lichen Sclerosus.
The science behind silicone’s effects on collagen production and skin rejuvenation.
What makes this new treatment non-steroidal and why that matters.
Eligibility requirements and what participation in the study entails.

Special Guest:

Key Moments:

1:49 – Discussion of two studies: one completed and one actively recruiting participants in Florida, DC, and NYC.
3:35 – Leia explains how silicone aids collagen production and benefits skin conditions, including burn victims.
5:21 – Application process: The silicone gel is easy to use—dab and rub gently over affected areas.
6:26 – Leia highlights the need for effective LS treatments and shares how she became involved in the study.
7:14 – The appeal of non-steroidal treatments and how Leia encountered this promising solution.
9:24 – Study requirements: participants must have an active LS diagnosis, abstain from steroids or other topicals, and undergo pre- and post-study biopsies.
13:10 – The study is initially limited to five participants, but a larger trial may follow pending positive results.
15:09 – Leia shares her excitement for the study’s potential outcomes and outlines the 10-week process, which includes subjective results announced after publication.
34:01 – Leia discusses the goal of FDA approval to make the treatment accessible and affordable for patients through insurance coverage.

Connect with Us:

Visit the Lichen Sclerosus Support Network for more resources: lssupportnetwork.org

Get more information on the study at https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06662942?cond=stratamgt&rank=2

or email the CVVD at [email protected]

Mentioned in this episode:

2025 Wholistic Healing Summit

Previous Episode

Unstoppable You: A Workshop for Young Adults with LS

Join Kathy and Sienna as they introduce the "Unstoppable You" workshop, designed specifically for young adults with lichen sclerosus (LS). They'll discuss the inspiration behind the workshop, its unique features, and how it can empower young people to thrive with LS.

Key Takeaways:

The "Unstoppable You" workshop is a 5-week program created to help young adults navigate the challenges of LS with confidence.
The workshop will cover topics such as communicating about LS, redefining intimacy, embracing pleasure, and building self-confidence.
Participants will have access to expert guidance, interactive sessions, a private online community, and evidence-based education.
The workshop starts on February 17th and runs until April 7th, with the community remaining open through May.
Early bird pricing is available from February 3rd to 10th.

Call to Action:

Visit https://lssupportnetwork.org/unstoppable to learn more and register for the "Unstoppable You" workshop.
Join the LSSN email list to stay updated on future events and resources: lssupportnetwork.org/subscribe

Chapter Markers:

00:00 Welcome to the Lichen Sclerosus Podcast
00:38 Meet Sienna: Chief Fundraising Officer
01:48 Sienna's Journey with Lichen Sclerosus
03:03 Creating a Workshop for Young People
04:25 Workshop Structure and Goals
07:56 Workshop Sessions Overview
14:59 Pricing and Registration Details
18:13 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Connect with LSSN:

Website: lssupportnetwork.org
Email: [email protected]

Mentioned in this episode:

2025 Wholistic Healing Summit

Next Episode

Your Journey to Healing Starts Here: Wholistic Healing Summit Preview

Are you living with Lichen Sclerosus? This podcast episode dives into the Wholistic Healing Summit, a patient-focused virtual event hosted by the Lichen Sclerosus Support Network (LSSN). LSSN's Kathy shares details about the summit's comprehensive program, featuring leading medical experts, sessions on intimacy and self-esteem, and practical advice for daily living. Learn about the different ticket options and how this summit can provide education, support, and community for those affected by LS.

Get your ticket today! - https://lssupportnetwork.org/whs

Got questions? Email us at [email protected]

Mentioned in this episode:

2025 Wholistic Healing Summit