Lupus Rash vs. Rosacea

Lupus Rash vs. Rosacea: Understanding Malar & Butterfly Rashes

Updated September 18, 2024

Lupus and rosacea are two distinct conditions. But there’s one thing they share: a red rash on the face.

It’s no wonder that the two are often confused! The similarities between rosacea and lupus can look startling at first. 

But once you get to know them, you’ll understand how different they can be. Each has a unique treatment, making a good diagnosis important.

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Introduction to Lupus

Symptoms of Lupus

Lupus is a complex autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissues and organs.

The two main types are systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which affects many systems, and cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE), which mainly affects the skin.

SLE is the most common type of lupus. It can be mild or severe, with lupus flares happening once every few years or several times a year. A rash can occur during these flares.

Skin issues are common in people with either type. The most recognizable is the butterfly rash, also called a malar rash.

This gets its name from the butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose. It can be the first sign of the disease.

Connection Between Lupus And Rash

The cause of lupus is the immune system attacking healthy cells. When it affects the skin on the face, it causes inflammation. 

The earlier you get a diagnosis, the more effective your treatment can be.

Lupus Rash Characteristics

Close-up of lupus malar rash on cheeks and nose

This type of lupus symptom is common. Some people think it looks like red or purple wings, which is where it gets its name. 

It appears on the face, mainly the cheeks and bridge of the nose. For some people, it looks like a mild flush. For others, it could be much darker, painful, or scaly.

Symptoms Associated With Lupus Rash

People with lupus won't just have skin issues. The disease often causes other symptoms such as:

  • Joint pain or arthritis

  • Chronic fatigue

  • UV light sensitivity

  • Hair loss

  • Sores in the mouth

  • Chest pain

  • Swelling

Rosacea And Its Symptoms

Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face. Flare-ups happen periodically, often from triggers like spicy foods or alcohol. They might appear as bright, circular patches on the cheeks. 

Rosacea can cause redness, visible blood vessels, and swelling. Other common symptoms include thickened skin on the nose and a burning sensation.

The exact cause of rosacea isn't clear.  Most people with rosacea control their symptoms through stress management and skin care.

Rosacea is a chronic condition, so it might never go away completely. There are several types of rosacea defined by the National Rosacea Society:

  • Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea

    • This type of rosacea is a common one. It causes facial redness, swelling, stinging, and scaling. Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is typically referred to as ERT.

  • Papulopustular rosacea is a condition that causes acne as well as redness.

  • Phymatous rosacea causes thickening skin on the face, especially on the nose.

  • Ocular rosacea symptoms often include redness and stinging in the eyes.

Rosacea can be challenging to manage. Some people may only have mild symptoms, while others might be more strongly affected. 

Comparison Between Rash Types

The rash of lupus is distinctly shaped and associated with an autoimmune response. Rosacea is a skin condition presenting as facial redness. This is particularly in the cheeks, chin, and forehead. Some people also have visible blood vessels and pimple-like bumps caused by rosacea. 

Is it Lupus or Rosacea?

Because both diseases cause facial rash, lupus can be mistaken for rosacea and vice versa. Learning the characteristics of the rash will provide an initial clue. Here are a few ways to determine what's causing your rash.

Close-up of a woman's face with rosacea symptoms

How to Differentiate Between Rosacea Vs Lupus Rashes

One key difference between lupus rash and rosacea redness? Their triggers!

The development of rosacea happens for many reasons. Stress, sunlight, spicy foods, and alcohol are all common triggers. 

Malar rashes may be triggered by sun exposure or have no obvious trigger. 

Another clue lies in the accompanying symptoms. A lupus rash on the face often occurs with joint pain, hair loss, and UV sensitivity. Rosacea might cause itching, burning, eye problems, or thickened skin. Consult with a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Though rosacea can be confused with lupus, the conditions are totally different. Lupus is an autoimmune disease, while rosacea is a chronic skin condition. They cause a range of symptoms, just one of which is a rash! 

Diagnosing And Treating Lupus Skin Rashes

Diagnosing lupus involves examining medical history and physical symptoms. It may include a skin biopsy, blood tests, or imaging. Early diagnosis is essential for timely intervention and effective management of symptoms.

Your doctor may ask you questions like:

  • What does the rash look like?

  • What are your symptoms?

  • How long have your symptoms been happening?

  • Do you have a family history of lupus?

 

Rosacea and Its Symptoms

Symptoms of Rosacea infographic

Understanding Rosacea

Rosacea is a common skin condition that primarily affects the face and can lead to redness, visible blood vessels, and swelling. It often presents with flare-ups and triggers such as spicy foods or alcohol. Managing stress levels and using gentle skincare products are recommended to help control rosacea symptoms.

Comparison between Butterfly Rash and Rosacea

While the butterfly rash in lupus is distinctly shaped like wings of a butterfly and is associated with an autoimmune response, rosacea presents as facial redness, particularly in the central areas like the cheeks, chin, and forehead. Rosacea may have visible blood vessels and pimple-like bumps, unlike the butterfly rash.

Is it lupus or rosacea?

How to Differentiate between Lupus and Rosacea RashesSide-by-side comparison of lupus malar rash and rosacea rash

 

Treatment Options

The treatment for lupus combines medications, lifestyle adjustments, and skincare measures. Topical corticosteroids or immunomodulators may be prescribed to reduce inflammation, redness, and itching.

However, topical steroids can result in some dangerous side effects.

An alternative is Dermeleve®, which offers safer, faster, and longer-lasting relief.

Tube of Dermeleve®

UV protection, gentle skincare, and stress management can also help.

Managing Rosacea Symptoms in Lupus Patients

Lupus patients who also have rosacea face unique challenges. Adopting a skincare routine tailored to both conditions can help. 

You may also want to avoid triggers of rosacea like spicy foods and alcohol. A dermatologist can help in managing rosacea symptoms effectively alongside lupus treatment.

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Wrap Up

Distinguishing between rosacea and lupus is vital for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Lupus and rosacea can affect anyone, regardless of age or health conditions. 

Recognizing the signs can lead to earlier detection and better management of lupus. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for a precise diagnosis.

Managing lupus involves a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and diligent skincare practices. Skin protection, gentle skincare, and avoiding triggers can improve your quality of life.

For those seeking an alternative, Dermeleve® offers a safer, faster-acting, and longer-lasting solution.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and take control of your skin health. Take the first step towards better skin health by trying Dermeleve® today!

FAQs

Q: What is a malar rash?

A: A malar rash is a butterfly-shaped rash on your face, a symptom of systemic lupus erythematosus. It usually appears on the nose and cheeks and may sting, itch, or burn.

Q: How is a butterfly rash related to lupus?

A: This inflammation is a common symptom and may be an early visible sign of the disease. If you see a distinctive red shape across your cheeks and nose, see a doctor to ask about a lupus diagnosis.

Q: What causes a malar rash in lupus?

A: Malar rash occurs because the immune system attacks healthy cells, causing inflammation. Lupus patients develop skin problems because their body targets skin cells. 

Q: How can you differentiate a lupus rash from rosacea?

A: Rash is a symptom of both diseases. A lupus rash appears on your face like wings, while rosacea rash often appears as red rashes on the nose and cheeks. Lupus rashes may also be accompanied by joint pain and other symptoms. Depending on the variant, a rosacea rash might include bumps, thickened skin, or eye redness.

Q: Are lupus rashes permanent?

A: A lupus rash often comes and goes, and its permanence varies from person to person. Most people have flare-ups where their symptoms get worse for a short time.

Q: What treatment options are available for lupus rashes?

A: Treatment options may include hydroxychloroquine, steroid creams, and broad-spectrum sunscreen. 

Q: What are the symptoms of lupus beyond rashes?

A: Lupus may also cause fatigue, joint pain, rashes or sores, and even permanent hair loss. It’s a complex disease, and symptoms vary widely.

Q: How is lupus diagnosed if I develop a rash?

A: If you develop a distinctive redness on your face, your doctor may recommend blood and skin tests. This will help pinpoint the cause of the irritation so you can make a treatment plan.

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