Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

What causes our Butterfly Rash to resurface and what does it mean?

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Palm Bay, FL

My Butterfly rash has been in a dormant state for quite some time but suddenly boom! Ta-Da!! It's back sticking its connect the dots nose into my business..I just to know who's more the blame..me or The sun?

August 28
 · 
Reactions
MyLupusTeam

Ha! Well, the sun definitely deserves some of the blame — but it's not the only culprit. A returning butterfly rash is often a sign that lupus is becoming active again, so it's worth paying attention to.

Here are the most common triggers that can bring it back:

- Sun exposure — UV light can intensify the body's inflammatory Show Full Answer

Ha! Well, the sun definitely deserves some of the blame — but it's not the only culprit. A returning butterfly rash is often a sign that lupus is becoming active again, so it's worth paying attention to.

Here are the most common triggers that can bring it back:

- Sun exposure — UV light can intensify the body's inflammatory response, making the rash flare up or worsen
- Heat — even hot showers, housework, or warm environments can trigger it
- Inflammation flare-ups — when lupus becomes more active internally, the skin often reflects that
- Photosensitivity — some people react not just to sunlight but also to fluorescent lighting A MyLupusTeam member shared, "My face rash comes out more when I'm hot and doing housework," which shows it's not always just about sun exposure.

When the butterfly rash resurfaces, it can signal an active lupus flare. It's a good idea to reach out to your rheumatologist or dermatologist, especially after a long dormant period. They can help assess whether your lupus activity has increased and adjust your care plan if needed.

So the verdict? The sun shares the blame — but inflammation may be the real ringleader! ☀️

August 28
A MyLupusTeam Member

Camille, please call your doctor and be seen ASAP!!! I agree that it's a significant flare, and as you know, the sooner you get on top of it, the less likely that hospitalization will be needed. If your legs become weak and walking becomes difficult before you can be seen, please go to the ER!

Sending you prayers and blessings.💜😘

August 29
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member Hello my friend it's good to see you again. My symptoms are bum rushing me fast and weighting me down. The neuropathy in my feet as gone from a 2 to a 6. The burning inflammation in my legs has returned from (1-10) to an 8.5-9. I had just conquer my Migraines with the right medicine but now they're throbbing slowing and returning back to haunt me. My back is constant in an aching stress especially when bending. Standing up to do dishes, cook, bathe are becoming tiring again and my butterfly rash as mildly returned on my face..I'm doing my best to take care of it. But I'm trying not to get emotional but I'm pretty sure it's active and flaring again. Im needing more sleep and it's just giving me slight PTSD of my start of this journey. I'm afraid it'll overcome me again, I can't afford to be hospitalized for months again. I don't want to loose some of the functionality if not all in my legs again. I don't think I can bare that blow.

But I'll keep my head up and stay positive
Thank you 😊

August 29
A MyLupusTeam Member

Yes, it means your lupus is starting to flare, and UV, stress, and poor sleep are among the many possible triggers. If you start noticing increased fatigue or other symptoms, please see your doctor, Camille.

August 29

Related Questions

View All

What does it mean if a butterfly lands on you

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
July 20, 2025

Does Lupus Rash Feel Hot? Inflammation, Temperature, and Other Factors
RNP Antibodies and Lupus: What Do They Mean?
What Causes Lupus?