What is the first treatment for morphea?

Morphea, also called localised scleroderma, can create firm or discoloured patches as inflammation affects the skin and sometimes deeper tissue. A clinician checks whether the patches are active, how deep they feel, where they are located and whether movement could be affected.

For superficial or limited areas, a topical calcineurin inhibitor may be considered to calm local inflammation without applying a steroid. Narrowband UVB phototherapy may be discussed for suitable widespread or superficial disease. Deeper, rapidly expanding or function-threatening morphea needs specialist planning and may require treatment beyond these initial options.

Use a bland moisturiser to reduce dryness and protect the affected skin from friction. Keep appointments so the clinician can compare borders, colour, texture and range of movement over time. Follow the application or phototherapy schedule carefully; changing treatment frequency without advice can irritate skin or make response harder to judge. Gentle movement may help when a nearby joint feels tight, but painful restriction needs review.

Seek dermatology review for a patch that is enlarging, becoming harder, developing a lilac edge, or limiting movement. Arrange prompt assessment for morphea near an eye, over a joint, or with new weakness, pain or reduced function. Rapid progression can change the treatment plan, so do not rely on moisturiser alone when these signs appear.

Ask whether your morphea is active or deep, why a topical calcineurin inhibitor or narrowband UVB phototherapy is being suggested, and how progress will be measured. Discuss sun protection during treatment, possible irritation and which movement changes should be reported.