What should you know about vitamin A for lichen planus?

Lichen planus is an inflammatory condition that can cause itchy, flat-topped purple or reddish bumps, and it may also affect the mouth, scalp, nails, or genitals. Treatment depends on the site and pattern; a biopsy or other assessment may be needed when the diagnosis is unclear.

Vitamin A-related medicines are not interchangeable. A topical retinoid may be discussed for a localised problem, while an oral retinoid has wider effects and needs a careful medical history, medication review, and monitoring. Do not use leftover capsules or someone else's cream.

Use prescribed treatment exactly as directed and protect irritated skin from friction. Keep nails short to reduce damage from scratching, choose gentle fragrance-free products, and tell your clinician about mouth sores, scalp changes, nail ridges, or genital symptoms.

Depending on the presentation, a clinician may discuss [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) or [Oral Corticosteroid Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-corticosteroid-therapy/) instead of, or alongside, a vitamin A medicine. Pregnancy planning and breastfeeding must be discussed before any retinoid.

Arrange review for rapidly spreading bumps, severe itch that disrupts sleep, painful mouth ulcers, difficulty eating, eye symptoms, or new genital involvement. Seek urgent help for facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or a widespread blistering reaction after a medicine.

Ask which form of lichen planus you have, whether vitamin A is suitable for the affected site, what monitoring is needed, and how pregnancy plans or other medicines affect the choice.