Lupus & You Webinar Recap: Embracing Skin Care

Skin care is an important part of living well with lupus but knowing how to protect your skin, recognizing changes and finding the right treatments isn’t always straightforward. From understanding lupus related rashes to exploring skin care products and cosmetic options, having reliable information can help you make informed decisions about your skin health. It’s also important to recognize that visible changes to the skin can affect confidence and emotional well-being.  

During our latest Lupus & You: Embracing Your Skin webinar, attendees learned about cutaneous lupus, daily skin care, sun protection, treatment options and cosmetic procedures. The program featured Ashira D. Blazer, MD, MSCI, Rheumatologist and Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland Division of Rheumatology; Leonardo Tjahjono, MD, FAAD, Clinical Dermatologist at George Washington University; and Michelle Henry, MD, FAAD, Clinical Instructor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College, Founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan and CEO of The Henry Research Group. Lupus warriors Phara Policar, Lupus101 and NY Lupus Warrior Support Group Facilitator; Nefertiti Ross, LFA Advocate; and Alyssa Weimer, Young Adult Support Group Facilitator, also shared their personal experiences navigating skin changes, self-image and confidence while living with lupus.

The information shared in this webinar and recap is for educational purposes and not intended to replace medical advice. Skin symptoms, treatment needs and responses to products or procedures can vary. Talk with your healthcare team before making changes to your treatment or skin care routine.

Top Takeaways from the Webinar: 

• Skin health matters for everyone living with lupus. You do not have to be diagnosed with cutaneous lupus for skin health to be important. Lupus can affect the skin in different ways and sun exposure may contribute to skin symptoms or lupus flares. Understanding how lupus can affect your skin and taking steps to protect it can help prevent complications and manage symptoms. 
• Skin care is healthcare. Caring for your skin is an important part of managing lupus. Skin symptoms deserve the same attention as other lupus related health concerns. Recognizing changes, seeking treatment when needed and communicating opening with your healthcare team can help protect your skin and protect your overall well-being. 
• A simple, consistent skin care routine can make a difference. Gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and daily sun protection can help support skin health. Products do not have to be expensive or complicated to be effective. Choosing products that work for your individual needs, avoiding unnecessary irritation and maintaining a consistent routine can help you care for your skin. 
• Your confidence and emotional well-being matter, too. Visible skin changes, hair loss and scarring can affect how you feel about yourself and interact with others. These concerns are just as important to discuss as physical symptoms. Sharing your experiences, discussing your concerns with your healthcare team and connecting with others who understand can help you navigate the emotional challenges of lupus.

Our Health Education Specialists also collected answers to some of the most asked questions from the event:

What is cutaneous lupus and how is it different from systemic lupus erythematosus?

Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can affect different parts of the body, including the joints, kidneys, blood, and skin. Cutaneous lupus refers to lupus that affect the skin.

Cutaneous lupus can occur on its own or alongside systemic lupus. Having cutaneous lupus does not necessarily mean you have SLE, although some people experience both. Skin changes can also be an early sign of lupus, making it important to have new or unexplained symptoms evaluated.

There are three main types of cutaneous lupus, including acute, subacute, and chronic cutaneous lupus. Discoid lupus is the most common form of chronic cutaneous lupus and can cause red, scaly, raised sores that may lead to scarring, changes in skin color or permanent hair loss. These conditions can look different from person to person and may affect areas such as the face, ears, and scalp.

Understanding which type of lupus is affecting your skin can help your healthcare team recommend appropriate treatment and monitoring.

Why is skin health important for people living with systemic lupus (SLE)? 

Skin health is an important part of managing systemic lupus, even if you have not been diagnosed with cutaneous lupus or experienced skin symptoms. Lupus can affect the skin in different ways, and skin changes may sometimes be an early sign of disease activity.

Even if you have never experienced a lupus related rash or other skin symptoms, ultraviolet (UV) exposure can still contribute to systemic lupus flares. Sun exposure can trigger skin reactions in some people, but it may also worsen lupus activity elsewhere in the body. This is why sun protection is especially important for everyone living with lupus, not just those who experience skin symptoms.

Skin care is an important part of everyone’s overall health because your skin plays an important role in protecting your body. For people living with lupus, protecting your skin and discussing new or worsening symptoms with your healthcare are also important parts of managing the disease.

"Skincare is healthcare," Dr. Blazer said.

How can you recognize lupus related skin changes and distinguish them from other skin conditions?

Lupus-related skin changes can include rashes, raised or scaly patches, changes in skin color and lesions that may itch or become uncomfortable. Some people experience the familiar butterfly shaped rash across the cheeks and nose while others develop symptoms on their scalp, ears or other parts of the body. Rashes may appear red or pink on lighter skin tones and darker brown or purple on darker skin tones.

Lupus-related rashes can resemble other conditions such as rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis, making them difficult to identify based on appearance alone. A dermatologist may consider your medical history, symptoms, and skin examination. In some cases, a skin biopsy or additional testing may be needed.

If you notice a new rash, changes in existing lesion or symptoms that are not improving, contact your healthcare team. Taking a picture of skin changes can help document how symptoms develop over time and provide useful information to share with your doctor, especially if your symptoms change before your appointment. Early evaluation is important because some forms of cutaneous lupus can lead to lasting skin changes or scarring.

"Looking for any warning signs and coming in early and letting us treat it early is important," Dr. Henry said. "When do you call your dermatologist? Call your dermatologist when you notice any thing new, anything spreading, any loss of hair, any pigment changes or scarring."

What should a daily skin care routine look like for someone living with lupus?

A daily skin care routine does not need to involve numerous products or complicated steps. Keeping your routine simple and choosing products that support your skin without causing unnecessary irritation can help maintain skin health.

Start with a gentle cleanser, avoid harsh scrubbing or very hot water, and moisturize regularly to support your skin barrier. Fragrance-free products designed for sensitive skin may be helpful, and moisturizers containing ingredients such as ceramides can support hydration. Daily sunscreen is another essential step even on cloudy days. Pay attention to how your skin responds to different products. Harsh exfoliating scrubs, alcohol-based toners, strong acids and retinol products may irritate active lupus rashes. Products that may be appropriate when your skin is calm may not be the best choice during a flare.

If you’re unsure where to start, ask your dermatologist about skin care consultations or demonstrations. Some dermatology practices or skin care professionals offer personalized guidance on selecting products, developing a routine and applying make up or cosmetic products to address discoloration, scarring or other skin concerns.

"I always encourage my patients to keep it simple," Dr. Tjahjono said. "Start off with a gentle skin cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubbing or hot water. Use a moisturizer that has ceramides and is fragrance-free. Protecting yourself with tinted mineral sunscreen every morning, rain or shine, is also very important." 

Why is sun protection important for people with lupus and what should you look for in a sunscreen?

Ultraviolet (UV) exposure can trigger lupus-related skin symptoms and contribute to flares. Exposure can occur during everyday activities, including spending time outdoors, driving or sitting near windows because certain UV rays can pass through glass.

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or higher to protect against UVA and UVB rays. Mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide may be a good option for people with lupus. Tinted mineral sunscreens can provide additional protection against visible light, which can contribute to hyperpigmentation, particularly in people with darker skin tones. A variety of tinted mineral sunscreens are available to complement different skin tones.

Apply sunscreen daily, including on cloudy days, and reapply regularly according to product directions, especially when spending time outdoors, sweating or swimming. Remember commonly missed areas such as the ears, behind the ears and the back of the neck.

Clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and seeking shade can provide additional protection. For people who spend significant time near windows, UV protective films may also be worth considering.

Sun protection works best when these measures are used together as part of a consistent daily routine.

"Your sunscreen actually has two jobs," Dr. Tjahjono said. "The first job is to prevent lupus flares. It blocks the UV light UV and UVB which triggers the skin lupus. Then it actually has a second job. It it prevents the dreaded dark spots. It blocks visible lights that includes sunlight and sunscreen."

Looking for UPF clothing and accessories? The Lupus Foundation of America's limited-time pop-up shop features LFA-branded UPF items to help you stay sun-safe while showing your lupus support. The shop will be open October 19 through November 7, 2026, so be sure to explore the collection before it closes!

How can you manage a lupus related skin flare and what treatments are available?

A skin flare may involve a new or worsening rash, redness, itching, inflammation or discomfort. Recognizing changes early is important because ongoing inflammation can sometimes lead to scarring or permanent changes in skin color.

Contact your dermatologist if you experience a flare rather than waiting for symptoms to become worse. Gentle skin care, moisturizing and cool compresses may help reduce irritation. Avoid scratching, picking at the rases and using harsh products that could irritate the skin.  It can also be helpful to track possible triggers, including recent sun exposure, smoking or missed doses of prescribed medications. Keeping a symptom journal and taking photos of skin changes can help you identify patterns and share useful information with your healthcare team.

Treatment depends on the type and severity of cutaneous lupus and how someone responds to their treatment plan. Options may include prescription topical steroids or nonsteroidal medications such as tacrolimus ointment or pimecrolimus cream. Hydroxychloroquine is another commonly used treatment that can help manage lupus related skin symptoms and reduce disease activity. Some persistent lesions may also benefit from other medications such as injections.

For more severe skin disease or symptoms that do not respond adequately to initial treatment, healthcare professionals may consider medications that affect the immune system, including methotrexate, azathioprine or mycophenolate. Research continues into newer, more targeted treatments for cutaneous lupus.

Sun protection remains an essential part of managing cutaneous lupus alongside medical treatment. Work with your dermatologist and rheumatologist to develop a treatment plan that addresses your skin symptoms and overall health.
Do not stop or adjust prescribed medications without discussing changes with your healthcare team.

How can you work with your healthcare team to manage lupus related skin concerns?

Managing lupus related skin concerns often involves more than one healthcare professional. Your rheumatologist helps manage overall lupus activity, while a dermatologist evaluates and treats skin specific symptoms. Your primary care provider also plays an important role in coordinating care among specialists.

Communication between providers is important because skin changes may be related to lupus activity, medication side effects or other conditions. When possible, receiving care within he same health system may make it easier for your providers to share information and coordinate treatment.

You also play an important role. Before appointments, write down your top concerns, track symptoms and prepare a list of medications and questions. Be specific about changes in your skin and how they affect your daily life, confidence and quality of life. Sharing your personal treatment goals can help your healthcare team understand what matters most to you.

If you do not understand a recommendation, ask your doctor to explain it differently. You can also repeat the plan in your own words to confirm that you understand the next step. Working together and communicating openly can help you make informed decisions and develop a treatment plan that considers both your skin health and overall lupus management.

What can help manage skin discoloration, hyperpigmentation and scarring?

Lupus-related inflammation can leave changes in skin color even after an active rash improves. Some people develop darker areas, known as hyperpigmentation, while others experience lighter patches or scarring.

Controlling the underlying inflammation is an important first step. Treating discoloration alone may be less effective if lupus-related inflammation is still active. Consistent sun protection is also important because UV and visible light exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation.

Once inflammation is controlled, a dermatologist may recommend products containing ingredients such as azelaic acid, niacinamide or vitamin C. Prescription treatments may also be considered depending on your skin and individual needs.

Improvement can take time, and some changes may not completely fade. Makeup or cosmetic camouflage products can help conceal discoloration or scars. If you choose to use these products, apply sunscreen first and select products that do not irritate your skin.

For more significant discoloration or scarring, in-office treatments such as certain chemical peels or laser procedures may be options once lupus is well controlled. Lasers and chemical peels require careful consideration of your lupus activity, skin tone, sensitivity and risk of additional pigmentation changes. Ask your dermatologist which approaches are appropriate for your skin.

Are cosmetic treatments, including Botox, fillers and light therapy, safe for people with lupus

Having lupus does not automatically mean every cosmetic procedure is off-limits. Whether a treatment is appropriate depends on your overall health, lupus activity and the procedure being considered.

One of the most important considerations is whether your lupus is well controlled. Cosmetic procedures are generally best avoided during an active flare because irritation or inflammation may increase the risk of complications or additional skin changes.

Treatments such as Botox may be appropriate for some people with lupus following an individualized assessment. Certain hyaluronic acid fillers may also be options, including for addressing areas affected by scarring. However, different filler formulations can carry different risks, making it important to discuss the specific product and procedure with an experienced dermatologist.

Light-based treatments also deserve attention. Red light therapy has not been shown to treat lupus rashes, and evidence for improving lupus-related discoloration is limited. Red light does not contain UV radiation and may be less likely to cause problems, but it should not replace prescribed lupus treatments or sun protection. If considering red light therapy, discuss it with your dermatologist, use it only when your skin is calm and stop if you develop redness or irritation.

Blue light therapy devices, including at-home acne masks, are generally discouraged for people with lupus because of concerns about light sensitivity and hyperpigmentation.
Before pursuing any cosmetic procedure, discuss your lupus diagnosis, medications, history of skin flares and concerns about healing or scarring with your dermatologist. Coordination with your rheumatologist may also be important.

Appearance-related concerns are an important part of quality of life. It's appropriate to ask about treatment options that address your concerns while protecting your health.

"f you're flaring, the answer is absolutely no to anything, including Botox," Dr. Henry said. "I stay away from anything inflammatory if you're actively flaring. Make sure you have an active conversation with your dermatologist before starting any new treatments."

Can lupus affect the scalp and cause hair loss?

Yes. Lupus can affect the scalp, and certain forms of cutaneous lupus, particularly discoid lupus, can cause inflammation that damages hair follicles.

Scalp involvement may appear as red, scaly or irritated patches and can cause itching or discomfort. If inflammation continues and scarring develops, hair loss may become permanent, making early evaluation and treatment especially important.

A dermatologist may recommend prescription medications applied to the scalp or other treatments to reduce inflammation, including injections for persistent lesions. Gentle shampooing and avoiding excessive heat or tight hairstyles during active inflammation may also help minimize irritation.

Not all hair loss in someone with lupus is caused by discoid lupus. Hair thinning or loss may also be related to systemic disease activity or medication side effects, and treatment depends on the underlying cause.

If you notice new hair loss, scalp redness, scaling or other changes, talk with your dermatologist so the cause can be evaluated and treated.

How can people with lupus address the emotional impact of skin changes and feel more confident in their skin? 

Lupus is often described as an invisible disease, but rashes, scarring, hair loss and changes in skin color can make its effects very visible. These changes may affect confidence, self-esteem, relationships and everyday interactions.

Living with visible skin changes can be emotionally challenging, particularly when others do not understand lupus or make assumptions about someone's appearance. It's important to recognize that concerns about appearance and self-confidence deserve the same attention as physical symptoms.

The patient panel highlighted the importance of speaking openly with healthcare professionals about how skin changes affect daily life and exploring available treatment options. Working with the right specialists, including medical and cosmetic dermatologists when appropriate, can help address both the physical and appearance-related effects of lupus.

Finding support is another important part of navigating these challenges. Connecting with others who understand lupus, whether through support groups, family, friends or other trusted sources, can help reduce feelings of isolation and build confidence. Learning more about lupus and how to respond to questions or misconceptions from others can also help people feel more comfortable advocating for themselves.

Their experiences reinforced that there is no single right way to feel about skin changes. Some people may explore treatments or cosmetic options, while others focus on accepting changes in their appearance. These approaches can also change over time.

If skin symptoms affect your confidence or emotional well-being, talk with your healthcare team. Support groups, trusted friends and family, and mental health professionals can also provide valuable support.

Your care should address not only your lupus symptoms but also how those symptoms affect your everyday life.

"We know the emotional impact of the scarring and hyperpigmentation we get from lupus and any skin disorder really can be quite profound," Dr. Henry said. "So it's something that I think about a lot and something that I think of when I'm caring for the whole patient."

Find More Information and Support

Lupus & You is a free educational series where people with lupus and their family and friends can learn more about the latest in lupus research and managing the disease. You can find slides and additional resources from this Lupus & You here. 

We’ll also be hosting another webinar soon focused on lupus and the skin as part of our research webinar series. Stay tuned for more details.

Our next Lupus & You will take place on December 9, 2026, focused on Inflammation and Nutrition. Find more information about upcoming and past Lupus & You events here. 

Our Health Education Specialists are also available to provide non-medical support and help connect you with lupus information and other resources that may be helpful.

Authored by:

Ashley Holden, MEd, CHES

Ian Decker , Health and Communications Writer

This blog post and the lupus resources found on the National Resource Center on Lupus are, in part, supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention under Cooperative Agreement Number NU58 DP006139. The contents are solely the responsibility of the developers. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official views of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the Department of Health and Human Services.

The Lupus Foundation of America and our health education specialists have answered some of your most common questions. The provided answers are for educational and information purposes only. Consult with your doctor/health care team for medical advice.