Lichen planus treatment: what should you know?

Lichen planus is an inflammatory skin condition that can cause itchy bumps, flat patches, or soreness. It can also affect the mouth, scalp, nails, or genital skin, so treatment is chosen for the site rather than by the rash name alone.

A clinician may examine the rash closely and sometimes recommend a biopsy when the appearance is uncertain. The aim is to settle inflammation, ease itch or pain, and prevent scratching from worsening the skin. Colour changes can remain after active inflammation has settled.

Book an appointment if the rash is persistent, spreading, very itchy, or affecting a sensitive site. Take photographs over time and bring a list of medicines, supplements, and recent products. This helps the clinician compare changes and consider medicine-related eruptions.

Use prescribed topical corticosteroids exactly as directed, especially on the face, folds, or genital skin. A moisturiser without fragrance may support the skin barrier. Keep nails short, use cool compresses for itch, and avoid picking or harsh scrubbing. Tablets such as oral corticosteroid treatment are used only when a clinician decides they are appropriate.

Seek prompt care if mouth pain makes eating or drinking difficult, if there is eye pain or altered vision, or if the skin becomes rapidly painful, blistered, hot, swollen, or draining. Contact your clinician if a prescribed product causes intense burning or a new rash.

Ask which sites are affected, how to apply each medicine, when to review progress, and whether the mouth, nails, scalp, or genital area should be checked. Ask how to manage itch during sleep and what symptoms should trigger an earlier visit.