Where lichen planus can appear

On skin, lichen planus often forms itchy bumps or flat, scaly patches, sometimes on the wrists, ankles, or lower back. It can also affect areas exposed to friction. The scalp may become sore or scaly and may lose hair if follicles are inflamed. Nails can develop ridges or thinning. Mouth and genital lining can develop delicate white markings or painful raw patches. [Lichen Planus](/conditions/lichen-planus/) does not look identical in every person.

Make a note of every new area, its appearance, and whether it itches, hurts, bleeds, or interferes with eating or urination. Show the clinician changes on less visible sites rather than treating them with a skin cream meant for another area. [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) may be prescribed for selected locations; wider disease may lead to discussion of [Oral Corticosteroid Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-corticosteroid-therapy/). Avoid picking or rubbing affected skin.

Seek timely assessment for a new painful mouth sore, genital soreness, eye symptoms, swallowing difficulty, rapidly spreading patches, or scalp hair loss. A sore that does not heal, repeatedly bleeds, or becomes infected needs direct examination. Urgent care is appropriate for breathing difficulty or facial swelling.

Ask which sites are affected, whether the mouth or nails need specialist review, how to care for sensitive areas, and whether treatment should differ by body site. Ask what changes should be photographed or reported between visits.