Lichen planus is a frustrating and uncomfortable skin condition, but with the right treatments and lifestyle changes, you can manage its symptoms and reduce the risk of it spreading.

Lichen planus is a skin condition that causes shiny, flat-topped, itchy bumps that can appear on your skin, on your nails, or inside your mouth. It can be uncomfortable and concerning, and you may wonder what you can do to get rid of it.

There is no cure for lichen planus. But treatment and certain hygiene practices can help relieve its symptoms, halt its spread, and speed up recovery. Lichen planus of the skin usually clears up on its own within 1 to 2 years, although sometimes it can take up to a couple of years. Lichen planus of the mouth is more persistent and can sometimes become a lifelong condition.

Let’s discuss lichen planus treatment options.

Lichen planus isn’t contagious and can’t be spread from person to person. But it can sometimes affect different areas of your body over time.

There are ways to prevent this condition from spreading around your body. Controlling flare-ups, managing triggers, and following a treatment plan can help reduce the risk of lichen planus spreading.

Timely treatment of lichen planus is key to controlling its spread, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. The type of treatment you receive depends on how severe your condition is and where the lesions appear.

Medical treatment

Mild cases of lichen planus may not require treatment. However, your doctor might suggest topical treatments to reduce itching and inflammation. For more severe cases, oral medications or other therapies may be needed. Common medical treatments include:

  • Topical corticosteroids: Steroid creams and ointments are the most common treatment for lichen planus. They help reduce inflammation and reduce further spread. Stronger prescription corticosteroids like clobetasol propionate can also help with itching.
  • Oral corticosteroids: If the condition is more widespread or resistant to topical treatments, your doctor can prescribe corticosteroid pills in addition to the topical formulations.
  • Antihistamines: Typically used to treat an allergic reaction, antihistamines can help with itching.
  • Immunosuppressive medications: Immunosuppressant drugs that lower your immune system activity, like methotrexate or azathioprine, may help control the spread and intensity of your symptoms.
  • Retinoids: These vitamin A-based medications (creams or pills) can help reduce the appearance of lesions.
  • Phototherapy: In some cases, exposing the affected skin to ultraviolet light (specifically ultraviolet B) may help control symptoms.
  • Other therapies: Doctors can prescribe mouthwashes, gels, sprays, or lozenges that contain antiseptics or corticosteroids to help with lichen planus of the mouth.

Home remedies and hygiene changes

While medical treatments are crucial for managing lichen planus, you can also take steps at home to soothe your symptoms and prevent flare-ups:

  • Avoid triggers: If certain foods or activities trigger flare-ups, avoid them. For example, acidic or spicy foods can irritate lichen planus of the mouth.
  • Practice healthy hygiene: Regularly clean the affected areas to prevent infections. For oral lichen planus, a soft toothbrush and alcohol-free mouthwash can help prevent irritation.
  • Moisturize your skin: Keeping your skin moisturized can help reduce itching and prevent further irritation.
  • Apply cool compresses: Applying a cool, damp cloth to the affected areas can help relieve itching and inflammation.
  • Take soap-free showers or baths: Avoid using soaps or body washes because they can irritate your skin. Lukewarm oatmeal baths may also improve lichen planus on your skin. However, opt for showers instead of baths if you have lichen planus on your genitals.

The exact cause of lichen planus is not known. But scientists believe that it’s an autoimmune disorder, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks skin cells or mucous membranes of your mouth.

Factors that may cause lichen planus to spread include:

  • Injury or trauma to the skin: Minor injuries like scratches or friction can cause new lesions to form. This is known as the Koebner phenomenon.
  • Stress: Stress and anxiety can trigger flare-ups or make symptoms worse.
  • Medications: Certain drugs can trigger or worsen lichen planus. This is known as a lichenoid drug eruption.

If you suspect you have lichen planus or notice new lesions spreading, it’s important to speak with a doctor. Be sure to get medical help if:

  • you have severe itching or pain
  • the lesions appear in your mouth, nails, genitals, or scalp
  • you notice changes in the appearance of the lesions, such as spreading or becoming larger
  • home remedies or over-the-counter treatments aren’t working

Let’s discuss a few questions you may have about lichen planus.

What autoimmune diseases cause lichen planus?

Lichen planus is an autoimmune condition, but it’s not believed to be directly caused by other autoimmune diseases. However, people with lichen planus may have other autoimmune conditions, such as thyroid disease and diabetes mellitus.

What worsens lichen planus?

Several factors can worsen lichen planus, including skin injuries, stress, and certain medications. It’s important to avoid scratching or irritating the affected areas, as this can lead to the spread of lesions.

What are the new treatments for lichen planus?

While traditional treatments like corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs remain common, newer therapies like biologic medications are being researched for their potential in treating lichen planus. Consult with a doctor for the latest treatment options.

There is no cure for lichen planus. But medications and other therapies, along with healthy hygiene practices and skin care, can help control flare-ups and soothe irritation. If you notice your condition worsening or spreading, be sure to seek medical advice.