Topical corticosteroids for lichen planus

Lichen planus can cause itchy, raised or flat-topped patches on the skin, as well as soreness or erosions in the mouth or genital area. A topical corticosteroid dampens local inflammation and may help the skin feel less itchy and heal more comfortably. Colour changes can remain after active inflammation has settled.

Treatment differs for thick skin, the scalp, nails, mouth, and genital skin. A product suitable for an arm may be unsuitable inside the mouth or on delicate tissue. Persistent, painful, or unusual lesions need confirmation because several conditions can resemble lichen planus.

Use the prescribed amount on clean, dry skin and follow the planned schedule. Avoid scratching, fragranced products, and rough fabrics over active patches. For mouth symptoms, follow directions about whether the medicine should be applied after meals and avoid eating or drinking for the interval your clinician recommends.

Do not apply a skin preparation inside the mouth or genital area unless it was prescribed for that site. Keep follow-up appointments if symptoms persist, because treatment may need adjustment and mouth or genital lesions may require closer monitoring.

Seek review for painful mouth sores that make eating or drinking difficult, genital soreness, scalp involvement, nail lifting, or lesions that bleed or fail to heal. Prompt assessment is needed for spreading redness, pus, fever, or rapidly increasing pain. Urgent help is appropriate for facial swelling or breathing difficulty after applying a product.

Ask which form is intended for each affected site, how to protect nearby normal skin, and how improvement will be assessed. Tell your clinician about mouth, genital, scalp, or nail symptoms and any medicines that have caused a previous rash.