4 Treatment options for lichen planus

The treatment for lichen planus is indicated by a dermatologist and can be done through the use of antihistamine remedies, such as hydroxyzine or desloratadine, ointments with corticosteroids and phototherapy. These treatment options vary according to the regions affected and aim to reduce skin lesions and relieve itching.

The treatment for lichen planus can last from a few months to several years, since the person with this diagnosis may present recurrent episodes of the disease, until the body responds to the therapies performed. It is important to remember that this disease is not contagious, however, in some cases it can be caused by the hepatitis C virus, and it can also be caused by the excessive use of anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen for example.

The main treatment options for nail, cutaneous, capillary or genital lichen planus include:

1. Ointments

The use of ointments with high-potency corticosteroids is the first option indicated by dermatologists to treat lichen planus, especially for cases where skin lesions are minor. This type of ointment helps to reduce inflammation, swelling, redness and itching caused by lichen planus, with clobetasol, betamethasone, fluocinolone and triamcinolone being the most recommended alternatives.

In the most severe cases, the use of calcineurins, such as tacrolimus and pimecrolimus, may be indicated, as they help to reduce the cells that cause inflammation in the skin. Another ointment indicated in some cases are those produced based on retinoic acid, as it contains vitamin A, which also has an anti-inflammatory effect on skin lesions caused by lichen planus. See more on how to use retinoic acid on your skin.

If the ointments do not work, the doctor may apply corticosteroid injections around the skin lesion so that the effects of the medication are felt more quickly.

2. Use of medicines

The use of drugs to treat lichen planus should be recommended by a dermatologist and serves to improve the symptoms of this disease, such as severe itching, redness, burning and pain in skin lesions. Corticosteroids are the most suitable remedies for these cases, which may be dexamethasone or prednisone, and they should be used as directed by the doctor, because even if the symptoms disappear it is necessary to continue taking the pills.

Oral antihistamines can also be used to relieve itchy skin, the most common of which are hydroxyzine and desloratadine. This type of medicine causes enough sleep, so it is recommended to take the pills before bed and you should not use these medicines before driving.

Another type of medication that may be indicated by the doctor is acitretin, which is part of the oral retinoid medications, and helps to reduce skin inflammation, reducing itching and redness, but should only be used in people with the most severe symptoms. of lichen planus. Also, in these more advanced cases of the disease, the person may show signs of depression and the doctor may advise follow-up with a psychologist and use of antidepressants. Find out which are the most used antidepressants.

3. Home treatment

The home treatment for lichen planus is based on measures that help to relieve symptoms and should include care such as applying cold compresses on swollen and itchy skin areas and maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding spicy, acidic and hard foods, such as bread, in case the lichen planus is in the mouth.

In cases of genital lichen planus, it is important to keep the affected region hydrated at all times, avoid the use of perfumed soaps and lotions, use cotton-based underwear, do local hygiene with cold water and to relieve itching. make a sitz bath with chamomile. Learn about other natural remedies for itching in the private parts.

4. Phototherapy

Phototherapy can be used to treat lichen planus, as long as it is done with the recommendation of the dermatologist. This therapy has anti-inflammatory effects and stimulates the immune system to fight the disease by applying ultraviolet rays directly to skin lesions. It should be applied between 2 to 3 times a week, and the number of sessions depends on the degree of the disease and the medical indication.

The side effects of phototherapy can be burns and formation of vesicles on the skin, so it should be performed only by trained professionals and in clinics and hospitals specialized in this type of treatment.

Signs of improvement and worsening

Signs of improvement in lichen planus include the disappearance of itchiness, pain, swelling of the skin and reduction in the size of the lesions. However, after a few months of treatment the lesions may also disappear or give rise to lighter spots on the skin.

On the other hand, when there is an increase in the amount and size of the lesions on the skin, in addition to the worsening of pain, itching, redness and swelling in the lesions caused by the disease, it is an indication that the disease has worsened, and it is important to go back to the doctor for another evaluation and establishment of new treatment.

In addition, when the treatment for lichen planus is not done properly or the symptoms take a long time to disappear, serious complications can arise, including oral ulcers or skin cancer, in the mouth or intimate region.

Here are some precautions you should take to have healthier skin: