Where lichen planus can appear

On the skin, it may appear as itchy, flat-topped bumps, often on the wrists, ankles, or lower back. The mouth and lips may show white lacy markings, soreness, erosions, or peeling. The scalp can develop scaling or hair changes, while nails may become ridged, thin, or damaged. Genital involvement can cause soreness or fragile patches. Not every person has changes in all these locations, and a distribution that looks like lichen planus can overlap with other conditions. The clinician may examine areas you did not realise were connected.

Make a private note of every affected site, when it began, and whether itching, pain, bleeding, or sensitivity is present. Mention mouth, scalp, nail, or genital symptoms even if they seem separate. Avoid scratching, harsh scrubs, and fragranced products. Bring a list of medicines and show photographs of earlier flares when the skin has changed.

Arrange assessment for new widespread bumps, persistent lip or mouth sores, scalp inflammation with hair loss, painful genital lesions, or nail changes without an obvious injury. Seek prompt care for difficulty swallowing, breathing trouble, rapidly spreading blistering, or severe pain. A lesion in a sensitive area may need tailored examination and treatment rather than a general skin cream.

Ask which sites should be checked, whether the mouth or genital area needs a specialist examination, and whether treatment differs by location. Ask how to protect sensitive skin and when to return if a new site appears.