From rashes and lesions to dry, itchy skin, it is very rare to hear of a #LupusWarrior that has not experienced some type of skin involvement.
The American College of Rheumatology uses an 11-item classification index to monitor lupus disease involvement. 4 of the 11 items relate to the skin.
Cutaneous lupus erythematosus is the umbrella term for lupus that primarily affects the skin. This type of condition can cause rashes or sores (lesions).
The sun typically triggers the rash or lesions and affects areas such as the face, ears, neck, arms, and legs. However, sun-triggered lupus can affect skin under clothing as well as internal systems.
There are three major types of skin disease specific to lupus and various other nonspecific skin manifestations associated with the disease:
- Chronic cutaneous (discoid) lupus
- Subacute cutaneous lupus
- Acute cutaneous lupus
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About 10% of #LupusWarriors experience urticaria—or hives. The rash and lesions usually itch. Allergies and allergic reactions can cause hives—(it’s important to check with a medical provider to rule this out.) Hives lasting more than 24 hours are likely caused by lupus.
Cutaneous vasculitis is when the blood vessels near the skin become inflamed and ultimately restrict blood flow. This condition can also cause hives and lesions that may itch.
Photosensitivity and Lupus
It’s suspected that nearly half of all #LupusWarriors experience sensitivity to sunlight (including artificial lighting) as well as any type of UV radiation. Photosensitivity typically results in the itchy hives and lesions. It can also bring on lupus flares in other parts of the body.
How to Protect the Skin from UV Exposure
For #LupusWarriors, sun protection needs to become part of daily routine. Both types of UV rays can activate lupus. Therefore, using a broad spectrum sunscreen, especially one with Helioplex, is ideal.
#LupusWarriors will also want to have their sunscreen to have an SPF of 70 or higher. Clothes only have an SPF of 5. Applying a 70 SPF sunscreen or higher all over the body when spending large amounts of time outdoors is a good way to prevent a hives flare. Also, be sure to re-apply as directed on the bottle, since sweat and prolonged exposure can cause coverage to dissipate.
Other Ways to Prevent Hives and Soothe Itchy Skin
Essential Oils and Natural Skincare Products.
Stress can be the leading cause of hives—and it can make them worse. People often describe seeing the onset of hives as a real anxiety-provoking experience, which exacerbates the urticaria.
Essential oils are great when trying to soothe skin and relieve stress. Some lotions have drying alcohols in the formulation, which in the end will not deeply moisturize everyone’s skin. The chosen essential oil should not be applied directly to the skin. Make sure it is mixed thoroughly mixed with a carrier oil (a vegetable oil usually non-consumption purposes) according to the directions on the essential oil bottle.
Calamine Lotion and Zinc Oxide Lotions
Calamine lotion has been known to provide pretty immediate results to itchy skin. The same goes for lotions that contain zinc oxide. Although it’s for the most part unknown why these two types of lotion deliver fast anti-itch relief, the lotions contain properties that act like an astringent.
There are also sunscreens available with a zinc oxide formula.