The lupus rash is a butterfly-shaped, pink to red or brown skin discoloration that can occur in both cutaneous and systemic lupus. It can be treated with ointments and creams, but avoiding sunlight is important. Other skin conditions need to be ruled out for diagnosis. Foundation makeup can cover the rash.
A lupus rash is a symptom that can occur in both cutaneous (skin) and systemic (whole body) lupus. It is frequently seen in cutaneous versions of the disease and is thought to occur about 30-40% of the time in people with systemic lupus. The friendly name of this rash is easy to understand due to its appearance. It is a light pink to red or brown, flat or raised skin discoloration that appears on the nose and cheeks, creating a butterfly shape. There are treatments that can treat the rash partially or totally, and the presence of this skin symptom can get worse or recede; avoiding sunlight is important to keep its appearance minimal.
A number of different rashes can resemble the lupus butterfly rash. Rosacea, which can appear on the nose and cheeks, can bear a significant resemblance to the rash. Sunburn can also look like a mild lupus rash, or melasma associated with pregnancy is occasionally mistaken for a lupus rash. Severe seborrheic dermatitis, which is most associated with dandruff and cradle cap, can affect the face and also cause a butterfly-shaped rash. These additional skin conditions and many others need to be ruled out if doctors are attempting to diagnose lupus.
On the other hand, a lupus rash can confirm a diagnosis of lupus, specifically systemic lupus. This is because the condition is usually assessed in terms of disease markers, rather than just individual factors. In the midst of the presence of other lupus symptoms such as joint pain, other forms of rash, sensitivity to the sun, and frequent infections, the typical lupus rash could definitely suggest the disease.
Many people are less interested in how the rash plays out diagnostically and are more interested in how the lupus rash can be treated or its appearance minimized. There are several treatments for this condition, but all reports agree that skin irritation tends to get worse and more noticeable with sun exposure. Investing in a good hat that provides sun protection for your face and using sunscreen are important steps.
Besides that, there are several ointments and creams that can be applied to the face to reduce the appearance of the rash. This skin irritation has a tendency to come and go, worsening when the body experiences lupus flare-ups or sun exposure occurs. During times when the rash is more severe, oral treatments or injections may be used to reduce its appearance.
Women have an added advantage of dealing with this condition which is not open to most men. Foundation makeup that covers skin conditions can completely cover the rash, provided it is flat, or can at least significantly reduce its appearance. Investing in a foundation with good sun protection can be an excellent choice.
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