Good morning! What products or treatments can help improve lupus-related skin problems?
Skin issues with lupus can be really frustrating, but there are several approaches that might help. The key is finding what works best for your specific situation.
Moisturizing is crucial
* Apply fragrance-free ointments or creams Show Full Answer
Good morning! What products or treatments can help improve lupus-related skin problems?
Skin issues with lupus can be really frustrating, but there are several approaches that might help. The key is finding what works best for your specific situation.
Moisturizing is crucial:
* Apply fragrance-free ointments or creams immediately after showering to lock in moisture
* Ointments and creams work better than lotions
* Leave a small amount of water on your skin before applying moisturizer
* Look for products with soothing ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, petrolatum, or jojoba oil
Medical treatments your doctor might recommend:
* Topical corticosteroid creams for inflammation
* Antimalarial medications like hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)
* Short courses of oral steroids during flare-ups
* Steroid injections for specific areas
Sun protection is essential:
* Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher, ideally SPF 60-70)
* Apply it 20 minutes before going outside and reapply throughout the day
* Wear protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats
* Avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
* Replace fluorescent bulbs with LED lights indoors What MyLupusTeam members have found helpful:
A MyLupusTeam member shared their detailed routine: "I wash with a shea butter soap. Pat dry. Then slather on aloe vera gel all over my body, and allow it to soak in. This is followed by a shea butter body cream. After that soaks in, I follow up with 100 percent emu oil."
Other members recommend:
* Taking cool showers instead of hot ones
* Using oatmeal lotion after patting skin dry
* Washing with gentle soaps like Ivory
* Applying witch hazel to affected areas
* Using ice packs for severe itching
Important: Always check with your dermatologist or rheumatologist before trying new products. They can help identify what's triggering your skin problems and recommend the safest, most effective treatments for your specific situation. Test new products on a small area first for 7-10 days to make sure they don't irritate your skin.
Managing your underlying lupus with prescribed treatments is also key to improving skin symptoms long-term.
January 21
Join
Your Privacy Choices
