Are you suddenly experiencing red rashes or eczema on your skin that are making you uncomfortable? This could be a symptom of a condition called lupus . Many people are scared when they hear the name, but if you are aware of it, managing this condition is not that difficult. Let's take a look at what these lupus rashes are, why they occur, and what we should do.
What are lupus rashes? Where do they come from?
Simply put, a lupus rash is an area of inflammation , itching, bumps, or discoloration on your skin. These can appear anywhere on your body. But they are most commonly seen on:
- In both hands
- On the back
- On the face
- Palms and hands
- On the neck
One of the most well-known and recognizable symptoms of lupus is the butterfly-shaped rash . To be precise, it's a red rash that looks like a butterfly spreading its wings, starting from your nose and spreading down your cheeks. This is medically known as a 'malar rash'. But this isn't the only one, there are many other types of rashes that can occur depending on the type of lupus you have.
The most important thing is that the main cause of this rash is exposure to sunlight . Your skin can be very sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight or artificial light. This can cause a rash or make an existing rash worse.
What are the main types of lupus rashes?
There are different types of lupus, and the skin rash that occurs is also different. Let's take a look at the main types.
| Rash Type | Main features | Scars/skin changes |
|---|---|---|
| Discoid Lupus Rash (DLE) | This is the most common type of lupus that affects the skin. It most commonly affects the face and scalp. These are round, thick, scaly rashes that are shaped like a coin. They are usually not itchy or painful. | Scars may form after healing. Skin color may change permanently (turn white/black). If it occurs on the scalp, hair may also fall out. |
| Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Rash (SCLE) | They often appear on sun-exposed areas such as the arms, shoulders, chest, and neck. They can look like rings that are connected together. They are not painful or itchy. | There are no scars during healing, but the skin color may change permanently. |
| Acute Cutaneous Lupus Rash (ACLE) | These occur during an active lupus flare-up. The butterfly-shaped rash (Malar Rash) mentioned earlier belongs to this type. It may appear as pink/red bumps, and may be accompanied by pain (inflammation). | It usually does not leave scars, but this rash may persist until the disease is controlled. |
Let's learn about other rare species
In addition to these three main types, there are several other rare types of rashes.
- Chilblain lupus : Itchy, painful bumps that appear in response to cold and moisture.
- Lupus erythematosus tumidus: Raised, raised bumps on the skin. These do not leave scars when they heal.
- Lupus panniculitis: A type that affects the deeper layers of the skin. This is whyUlcers and scars that permanently appear as pits on the skin can form as they heal.
- Neonatal lupus: A condition that occurs in newborns. Round-shaped spots can be seen on the head, face, and neck.
Why does this lupus rash suddenly flare up?
There are several reasons why a lupus rash can suddenly appear or worsen. We call these 'triggers'.
Simply put, lupus is an autoimmune condition in which our own immune system attacks our own body. So when we are exposed to sunlight, these immune cells become overactive, causing inflammation in the skin. This is the result that we see as a rash.
Besides sunlight, there are several other common causes:
- Infection
- Injury to the body
- Some medications
- Smoking (Smoke exposure)
- Severe stress
- Changes in temperature
You can talk to your doctor to find out the exact cause of your rash.
What are the treatments for this?
There are various treatments available to manage and cure lupus rashes. Your doctor will prescribe the most appropriate one based on the type of rash you have and the severity of the condition.
- Topical creams – e.g. corticosteroid cream
- Antimalarial medication
- Antibiotics
- Types of retinoids (A retinoid)
- Immunosuppressants
- Biological drugs (Biologics)
Most importantly: Only your doctor can determine the treatment that is best for you.Treatment is determined by the type of rash you have and the nature of the condition. Therefore, be sure to seek medical advice.
What are the best times to see a doctor?
If you have lupus or suspect you have it, it is very important to see a doctor and get proper advice.
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Can lupus rashes be prevented?
While some lupus rashes can't be completely prevented, avoiding triggers can provide significant relief. Sun protection is especially important.
- Wear a good broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, even when you're indoors . Reapply every two hours.
- Minimize exposure to strong sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. That's when the sun's rays are strongest.
- If you are going to be in the sun, cover your skin with things like long-sleeved clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Do not use tanning beds.
- It would be better if you could apply protective window coverings to your home's windows that protect them from UV rays.
Lupus is a challenging condition to manage. The skin issues, especially, can be very stressful, both mentally and physically. But you don't have to suffer through these things alone. A qualified dermatologist or your family doctor can help you manage this condition.
Take-Home Message
- Skin rashes are common in lupus. A butterfly-shaped rash on the face (malar rash) is a major symptom.
- Sunlight is the main cause of this rash, so sun protection is essential.
- If you develop an unusual rash or spots on your skin, do not self-diagnose or treat, but definitely see a doctor.
- With proper treatment, lupus rashes can be controlled and scarring can be minimized. So don't be afraid to seek medical advice.
👩🏽⚕️ Additional questions (FAQs)
💬 Should you be worried if you suddenly develop a red, butterfly-shaped rash (Lupus Rash) on your face?
If you often experience a severe red rash across your cheeks and nose (butterfly rash), it is not normal. It can be a major symptom of a dangerous disease called 'Lupus (SLE).' Therefore, if an adult has this unusual rash, see a doctor immediately.
💬 Is the sun damaging the rash caused by lupus?
Yes! People with lupus are most affected by sunlight (Photosensitivity). Even a short time in the sun can cause a large rash and inflammation that looks like a sunburn all over the body. Therefore, it is very important to apply sunscreen when going outside.
💬 Can this red rash on the skin be cured?
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that cannot be completely cured. However, with the help of special creams (Steroid creams / Hydroxychloroquine) prescribed by doctors and protection from the sun, you can get rid of the rashes and scars on your skin and live a normal life.
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