The best ointments for lichen on human skin: a list of effective drugs

Types of lichen in humans

The most contagious and quickly spreading is ringworm , so it needs to be treated as quickly as possible, and the patient must be isolated for this period. The most serious disease of this group is psoriasis . It is often inherited and significantly worsens the quality of life of patients. Herpes zoster can also cause a lot of discomfort, because its appearance is accompanied by severe pain.

Other types of diseases are not so dangerous; a correct lifestyle and following all the doctor’s recommendations will help you get rid of them forever.

What folk remedies treat lichen on the head

Traditional medicine offers its own methods of treating lichen. They involve the external use of substances obtained according to a special recipe. How can you apply lichen at home:

newspaper ash obtained after burning fresh newspaper;
condensation formed when windows fog up;
onion or garlic juice.

These drugs do not have a systemic effect, since they do not affect the functioning of the body (unlike tablets). Therefore, they are often practiced when treating children.

For chronic cases of ringworm, homeopathy can help. But for it to be effective, only a homeopathic doctor should prescribe homeopathic remedies.

Pityriasis rosea (lichen of Zhibera)

The disease develops gradually, with the following symptoms appearing:

2 weeks before the onset of the disease, half of the patients develop a spot on the skin up to 4 cm in size, flaking over the entire surface. It is called maternal;
At the initial stage, before the rash appears, the patient complains of general malaise, a slight increase in temperature, joint pain and, in some cases, enlarged cervical lymph nodes;
Then a rash appears, which initially appears as pinpoint pink spots, increasing to the size of a 10-kopeck coin and causing a feeling of tightness of the skin. It is located along the lines of skin tension directed perpendicular to the axis of muscle contraction;
The spots may be oval or round. Most often, pityriasis rosea is located on the torso. In more rare cases - on the limbs or genitals;
After 2–3 days, the color of the spots changes to brown, and along the periphery they rise and become covered with scales;
After a few more days, the scales peel off, and the edges around the edges become pink. The spot takes on the appearance of a medallion.

Most often, pityriasis rosea does not require specific treatment; it is simply necessary to limit water treatments and exposure to ultraviolet rays.

If the spots cause itching, antihistamines are prescribed: Suprastin, Tavegil, Diphenhydramine.

If necessary, antiviral drugs can be prescribed: Acyclovir, Valavir, as well as immune system stimulants and vitamins.

Photo of pink lichen:

Treatment

Since lichen develops on the head in adults and children, the disease should be treated based on the individual characteristics of the patient and taking into account the type of skin disease.

How to treat ringworm?

At the first signs of skin damage, you should consult a doctor. Based on examination data and special studies, the dermatologist makes a diagnosis and prescribes comprehensive treatment.

Taking Griseofulvin tablets. Their dosage for children and adults is calculated based on the patient’s weight. In the acute stage of the disease, Griseofulvin should be taken three times a day, each dose washed down with a tablespoon of vegetable oil. As you recover, the dosage of the drug is reduced.
The hair in the affected areas is shaved off to make it easier to treat the scalp.
Ringworm spots are treated with iodine.
At night, sulfur ointment is rubbed into the lesions; the drug Terbinafine is effective. It has an antimycotic effect and stops the proliferation of fungus.
Hair can be washed with antifungal shampoos: Nizoral, Betadine, Friderm-tar.

With the development of an infiltrative-suppurative form of the disease, the doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics, both in the form of oral tablets and in the form of ointments and creams.

Treatment for ringworm is long-term and can last 1-2 months. Children are allowed into the children's group only after complete recovery.

Does pink need to be actively treated?

Many dermatologists believe that it is not necessary to treat Zhiber's lichen; it can go away on its own in 4-6 weeks. Therefore, the main therapeutic measures are aimed at eliminating itching and strengthening the patient’s immunity.

Antihistamines are prescribed: Suprastin, Zodak, Claritin, Cetrin. They reduce the manifestation of allergic reactions and reduce itching.
Vitamins A, C, E, and group B are taken. They promote skin regeneration, restoration of the skin, and also support the body's defenses.

Pityriasis rosea goes away quickly enough and leaves no complications.

Red flat therapy

The disease must be treated comprehensively, under the supervision of a dermatologist; in severe cases, in a hospital.

Rubbing with alcohol is applied locally to help relieve itching.
The doctor may prescribe the use of corticosteroid ointments that effectively relieve inflammation and help get rid of itching (Advantan, Celestoderm, Sinaflan). They can be used for a short period of time in adults. For children, hormonal drugs with a less aggressive effect are selected.
Read also: Medicine Troychatka Evalar: instructions for use
Tetracycline antibiotics are prescribed internally.
To support the nervous system, sedatives are prescribed: Valerian extract, Sedavit complex.
Vitamin therapy is used: taking vitamins A, E, B6, B12.

With timely treatment, lichen planus goes away without a trace; only in exceptional cases, small scars, depressions or areas of keratinized skin may remain on the scalp.

Shingles (herpes zoster)

Shingles manifests itself in the form of the following symptoms:

A few days before the appearance of visible signs of the disease, chills, lethargy, headache, itching and discomfort appear in the area where the rash subsequently appears;
After a maximum of 4 days, the patient develops a rash in the form of pink spots, which within 24 hours transform into small blisters filled with liquid;
Most often, the rash occurs in one part of the body and is located along the nerves. In rare cases, it may appear on the face and limbs;
The appearance of the rash is accompanied by pain, in some cases very severe, and itching. In this case, the patient’s temperature may rise to 39˚C;
Within 7 days, the number of bubbles increases, the liquid in them becomes cloudy, then they retract and become crusty, and then plaques appear;
A scar or lighter area remains at the site of the lesion. The disease lasts from 15 to 30 days.

If the disease affects the facial area, the patient is hospitalized . To treat the disease, drugs from different pharmacological groups are prescribed:

Analgesics: Ketanov, Dexalgin;
Antiviral drugs: Acyclovir, Gerpevir, Valavir, Cycloferon;
Products for external use: brilliant green, Fukortsin.
Sedatives and hypnotics: Sondox, Donormil, Persen;
Preparations to stimulate the immune system and vitamins.

Photo of herpes zoster:

Definition

Ringworm is considered a serious dermatological disease, which is caused by the action of harmful fungi and viruses. Freely transmitted from person to person through direct contact. Those whose bodies are weakened by a poor diet, unfavorable environmental conditions, stress, taking complex medications and other factors are more likely to become infected.

Ringworm appears on local areas of the skin in the form of pigment spots, blisters, peeling, itching and pain at the site of the lesion. The disease causes the patient constant discomfort and even unbearable sensations. All types of lichen known today in humans, with the right approach, can be completely cured and with minimal damage to the body. However, there are also chronic forms, for example psoriasis, which require a person to constantly take medications, control their diet, and lifestyle. Types of lichen in children are caused by the same reasons as in adults. But immediate measures are required, since the spread is faster in a child.

Ringworm (trichophytia, microsporia)

The disease can affect the scalp, limbs, inguinal folds, torso, arms, legs, face. Depending on the location of the lichen, symptoms may vary:

Round lesions (up to 10 cm) appear in the hair, in the area of which the hair thins, and subsequently breaks off at a distance of 1 - 2 mm from the skin;
In the affected area, peeling of the skin occurs, white or gray scales form;
Bubbles appear along the periphery of the affected area, transforming into yellowish crusts. The remaining hair becomes covered with a gray coating;
The disease is accompanied by slight itching.

If lichen appears on smooth skin, the symptoms are as follows:

Spots with clear contours appear on the skin, along the periphery of which a pink ridge appears, covered with bubbles and crusts. In the center the spot is lighter, covered with gray scales;
The disease is accompanied by itching and progresses rapidly;
When nails are affected, they become cloudy, crumble, thicken and become jagged.

With the infiltrative-suppurative form of ringworm, large red plaques resembling a tumor, filled with pus, appear on the affected area of the scalp. When the follicles are opened, their contents are released, and loose brown crusts form in this place.

You can read about microsporia in children here, and in adults here.

The following drugs are used to treat the disease:

Antifungal drugs for external and internal use: Ketoconazole, Nizoral, Orungal, Clotrimazole, Terbinafine, Griseofulvin;
External agents: iodine, sulfur-salicylic ointment, zinc-salicylic paste;
Antifungal shampoos: Nizoral, Dermazol.

Photo of ringworm:

Where and how do they get infected?

You can catch ringworm:

when using shared toiletries (washcloths, combs, hats, towels);
when visiting public baths, swimming pools;
upon contact with a sick animal (aka “cat”) or with a sick person.

Most often, children under 15 years of age are susceptible to this disease. You can see what lichen looks like on a child’s head in the photo below.

It should also be added that in addition to ringworm on the head, the following may occur:

red flat;
pink;
asbestos;
encircling;
pityriasis The last of these is often called multi-colored. In case of infection with this lichen, the hair structure is not disturbed.

All of these species are much less common than the ringworm.

Pityriasis versicolor on the head is shown in the next photo.

Every parent is interested in how a child can acquire this disease. Often children, seeing stray animals (puppies, kittens), begin to pet them and play with them. It is homeless animals that are a common source of disease in children.

Below is a picture of lichen on a child's head (see photo).

A child can also become infected if he has wounds or scratches, simply by playing in the sandbox if an infected animal was walking there in front of him. The infection spreads from the hands to the child's head while scratching.

Pityriasis versicolor (lichen versicolor)

The following symptoms are characteristic of pityriasis versicolor:

The appearance of pink, brown and yellow spots on the skin. They are not symmetrical and over time can merge into large lesions with jagged edges;
The color of the spots may change depending on the effect of ultraviolet radiation on the skin: in winter they are brown, and in summer they become light;
There is subtle peeling on the surface of the spots;
The localization of lichen versicolor is the back and chest. In rare cases, it may appear on the neck, abdomen, shoulders or scalp. And with the inverted form of pityriasis versicolor, the spots are located in the folds of the skin;
The disease is prone to relapse and, despite treatment, can last for years.

In the follicular form of the disease, pustules and papules up to 2 mm appear against the background of inflamed skin. The disease is accompanied by quite severe itching.

Treatment of pityriasis versicolor is a long process . During this period, the following drugs are prescribed:

Antifungal drugs for external use: Clotrimazole, Dermazole, Ketoconazole, Nizoral, Lamisil;
Antifungal drugs for internal use: Terbinafine, Dermazol, Sporagal. They are prescribed in the case of the follicular form of the disease or if the disease covers large areas of the skin and progresses;
Disinfecting solutions: iodine, salicylic alcohol, boric alcohol.

Photo of pityriasis versicolor:

What affects the intensity of itching with lichen

Despite the general anatomy, all people are individual. The characteristics of the body also appear in the pathological condition under consideration. In some cases, the itching of lichen is barely felt, in others it is very disturbing, preventing you from sleeping and living fully. Often these processes are influenced by psychosomatics. In this case, one’s own experiences, worries and anxieties greatly intensify the itching or are even the only factor that initiates this process. The disease itself could proceed without this sensation if the person were less nervous. Also, the desire to scratch a spot on the skin may be more or less pronounced due to the severity of the disease, concomitant pathologies, and the stage of progression of the pathological process.

Lichen planus

The disease affects only the skin, but also mucous membranes. Ringworm can be located on the forearms, thighs, legs, armpits, groin and manifests itself in the form of the following symptoms:

Small nodules with a shiny surface appear on the skin, the color of which can be brown, red or bluish. In the center of some of them there is a notch resembling a navel;
The nodules can merge into plaques, forming a peculiar mesh-like pattern on the skin. This can be seen if you lubricate the skin with vegetable oil;
The patient feels severe itching. The disease lasts up to 4 weeks, and subsequently may recur;
Almost half of the patients have damage to the mucous membranes of the genitals and mouth. In this case, the whitish nodules are grouped. In the oral cavity they are located in the area where the teeth meet;
In 15% of patients, the disease affects the nails. In this case, the nail plates become cloudy, crumble, and longitudinal stripes appear on their surface.

In the absence of pronounced symptoms, the disease does not require treatment and disappears on its own. If it is accompanied by severe itching, then antihistamines are prescribed: Suprastin, Diphenhydramine, Loratadine. It is also necessary to take immunostimulants and vitamins.

During lichen planus, it is necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle, and if the rash is located in the mouth, pay special attention to nutrition.

Photo of lichen planus:

Ointments for pityriasis versicolor

The basis of treatment for pityriasis versicolor is the use of agents that have keratolytic and antimycotic properties. Suitable medications are prescribed by the attending physician.

When the spots occupy a small area on the body, only topical anti-fungal drugs are used for treatment.

Miconazole

Creams and sprays that contain Miconazole are considered quite effective in the fight against pathogenic fungi that cause lichen. Moreover, the drug is equally destructive for both ringworm and pityriasis versicolor.

Usage:

spray or cream is applied 2 times a day to the skin until all signs of infection disappear;
after eliminating the lichen, the drug is used for another 14 days to prevent relapse.

Dermazol

The drug is sold in the form of cream and shampoo; for pityriasis versicolor, both versions of the drug are used with equal effectiveness. The choice depends on the location of the pathology foci.

The cream is applied 2 times a day, the optimal course is at least three weeks. If the disease appears on the scalp, additionally use shampoo. Both types of products are allowed to be used during pregnancy and lactation.

Ketoconazole

This drug has a pronounced antifungal effect; it actively fights fungi of various types, ranging from dermatophytes to pathogens of systemic mycoses. Ketoconazole does not allow fungi to multiply, causing their inhibition and subsequent death.

Peculiarities:

the medicine is taken once a day in a dose of 200 to 400 mg;
For children, the drug is prescribed in a dose of 4 to 8 mg per day per kilogram of weight.

Triacutan

This ointment for lichen on human skin consists of several components:

clotrimazole;
gentamicin;
Betamethasone dipropionate.

Clotrimazole inhibits pathogenic microorganisms and fungi, gentamicin relieves the inflammatory process, dipropionate removes inflammation and itching. The medicine is applied 2 times a day, ideally strictly every 12 hours. Course duration is from 3 to 4 weeks.

Terbinafine

The drug has pronounced antifungal properties; it suppresses the vital activity of most fungal agents, both yeast and dermatophyte and mold.

Peculiarities:

daily use of the drug for a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 6 months;
a ban on the use of Terbinafine during lactation and pregnancy, in children under 2 years of age, people with kidney disease, vascular disease and metabolic disorders.

Ringworm (eczema)

Weeping lichen is most often called true eczema, which has the following symptoms:

The rash is located symmetrically (for example, on both hands);
Areas of redness and swelling with unclear boundaries appear on the skin;
Subsequently, these areas become covered with nodules and blisters filled with liquid;
After some time, the bubbles open, releasing the contents, and erosions form in this place (wetting period);
Then the contents dry out, forming bloody or serous crusts.
The disease is accompanied by severe itching, especially after contact with water or in the evening.

To treat the disease use:

Corticosteroid hormones: Lorinden, Hyoxysone, Hydrocortisone;
Antihistamines: Pipolfen, Suprastin, Diphenhydramine;
Sensitizing therapy: solutions of Neohemodez, Reosorbilact, Sodium Thiosulfate;
B vitamins.

Photo of eczema:

Hygiene procedures

With contagious types of lichen, the first thing the sick person and his environment should take care of is strict hygiene and isolation. It is necessary to separate separate bathroom utensils, cutlery, dishes, thoroughly wipe door handles with antiseptics, and wash hands more often. If ringworm is diagnosed, then measures must be taken immediately - it is impossible to do without complete disinfection of the apartment or house. You also need to take care of the patient’s clothes and bedding: wash everything in hot water and iron at maximum temperature. There are some other rules to follow:

If possible, remove carpets or thoroughly treat them with a steam generator from time to time;
avoid going to the pool and sauna, have less contact with water and skin-irritating products to cleanse the skin, put cosmetic products on the far shelf;
Beware of the sun, as its radiation increases the growth of fungal infections.

The last point should be especially adhered to if a lichen is found that does not itch much or does not itch at all, i.e. with a multi-colored appearance.

Lichen squamosus (psoriasis)

Squamous lichen can be located on the torso, extensor surfaces of the arms and legs, on the scalp, on the palms, and on the face.

Typical psoriasis causes the following symptoms:

A specific rash appears on the skin, which is flaky, rounded bumps of pinkish-red color that rise above the surface;
If you scrape, the whitish-gray scales crumble, revealing a shiny, wet, red surface underneath. If you scrape it too, pinpoint bleeding occurs;
The tubercles grow and form plaques up to several centimeters in diameter, then merge into solid areas with uneven edges;
Most often, they begin to dissolve from the middle, forming a garland on the skin. And in the place where the rash disappeared, an area with disturbed pigmentation forms;
The disease is accompanied by severe itching.

In the exudative form of psoriasis, the rashes are bright and swollen . Yellowish crusts form on their surface. If the disease affects the palms and soles, the skin in this area turns red, becomes rough, covered with crusts and cracks, scales and psoriatic plaques.

With any form of psoriasis, the nails can be affected; in this case, the plates thicken and become cloudy.

Psoriasis is a chronic disease, which is very difficult to get rid of. Exacerbations occur most often in winter. Treatment of the disease must be comprehensive; in this case, drugs from different groups are used:

Hormonal ointments: Mometasone, Betamethasone, Lorinden;
Ointments based on tar: Kolposedin;
Ointments based on solid oil: Antipsor.
Non-hormonal agents that activate natural protective processes in the body.

Physiotherapeutic methods, spa treatment, proper nutrition, and hardening are also used.

Photo of psoriasis:

Antipruritic drugs

It is important to remember that there is only one way to finally get rid of the obsessive desire to scratch your skin - to cure the disease itself. Relieving symptoms alone, as a rule, does not give a long-term effect, and a person again and again asks the question: “Is the lichen itching, or perhaps another disease has already developed?” Meanwhile, generalizations are also unnecessary, because for some types of this disease, modern medicine simply cannot offer an absolute cure. In this case, antipruritic drugs help. What is prescribed:

Hydrocortisone ointment. Has the ability to relieve inflammation and fight itching.
Prednisolone ointment. The product helps speed up regenerative processes. Has healing properties and relieves inflammation.
Lorinden A. Helps reduce inflammation, thereby relieving itching and swelling.
Flucinar. Excellent against itching, helps with inflammation and flaking of the skin.
Tsindol. Effective for weeping lichen found in humans. Relieves itching and reduces inflammation.

Piedra (nodular) lichen

With lichen nodosum, the hair is affected and the following symptoms occur:

Dense white round or oval nodules appear on the surface of the hair, covering the hair in the form of a muff;
Hair can stick together, forming tufts;
When bending such hair, a characteristic crunch is heard, which is caused by the destruction of a dense colony of the fungus.

The most effective method of treatment is shaving off the affected hair, after which the disease recedes. If this method is not suitable, then you need to wash your hair daily with a solution of mercury dichloride 1:1000 and comb out the knots with a fine comb.

Photo of piedra:

If you have signs of any of the listed diseases, you should consult a dermatologist.

General signs

Timely treatment depends on the stage of development of the disease, which is why it is so important to identify the symptoms in time and make the correct diagnosis. Both a small area of skin and the entire body are affected. Moreover, infection can appear in any place: on the head, in the groin area, on the tongue, heels, fingers, etc.

Each type of lichen and its treatment proceed differently, but the following general symptoms can be identified:

Pigmentation disorder, the skin area darkens, turns red and pink.
Blisters, peeling of the skin, and suppuration appear in the affected area.
Mild or severe itching.

The main sign of a dermatological problem is the formation of an area of skin with an unhealthy structure. This may be a reddish spot, a group of blisters, a purulent growth, or a change in the skin. Symptoms depend on the type of lichen. There is a fungal and infectious nature of the disease. In the latter case, there is a general deterioration in health: a rise in temperature or the appearance of chills is possible. If you notice any of these signs, you should definitely contact your doctor for a diagnosis. In the article you will find a description of the types of lichen and photos. Treatment will depend on the manifestation of the disease.

Prevention of pilaris

All diseases are easier to prevent, but following simple rules of prevention can contribute to a speedy recovery:

Do not neglect the rules of personal hygiene, take a shower in a timely manner, do not use other people’s personal hygiene products such as a comb, towel, slippers;
Do not use detergents with aggressive components that can disrupt the body's barrier functions;
Avoid frequent injuries, and if there are wounds, treat them with antiseptic drugs;
Use clothes made from natural fabrics;
If you have an allergy, try to remove or replace the provoking factor;
Increase immunity and maintain its functions;
If there are acute or chronic diseases, treat them completely;
Do not abuse the solarium;

The duration of the disease varies from two months to a year; timely treatment and strict adherence to the doctor’s instructions will speed up recovery. To prevent a relapse, it is advisable to retake tests a couple of months after recovery and repeat the course of vitamin therapy.

Diagnosis and treatment of tubular lichen

When the first symptoms appear, i.e. rash, you should consult a dermatologist. Basically, the determination of the disease occurs during the examination. For clarification, Balser samples are taken. Sometimes, using luminescent and microscopic equipment, lichens in humans (species) are diagnosed.

Treatment of this disease is complex:

Antifungal drugs are prescribed for both external (shampoos, creams) and internal use (Fluconazole).
The additional complex is designed to strengthen the body and prevent relapses. This includes recommendations regarding lifestyle (good sleep, diet, rest), avoiding sun exposure and avoiding stressful situations.

Preventive measures

To prevent the occurrence of fungal infections in the form of lichen on the neck, you must adhere to the following rules:

exclude contact with carriers of the disease - people, animals;
do not use other people’s hygiene products;
if there are animals in the house, monitor their health;
keep the house clean;
observe hygiene standards;
wear only clean underwear;
exclude the use of low-quality cosmetics that can cause allergic reactions;
avoid stressful situations;
eat only healthy wholesome foods;
take measures to increase the body's immune defense;
eliminate all bad habits;
monitor your general health;
avoid colds;
treat chronic diseases in a timely manner.

Ringworm on the neck is a rather unpleasant skin infection. This rash does not belong to the category of particularly dangerous pathologies, but if left untreated, it can cause complications and delay recovery for a long time. Therefore, in order to quickly and permanently eliminate the disease, you should immediately consult a doctor when the first symptoms appear.

Diagnostics

Diagnosing ringworm is usually not difficult. In addition to collecting an anamnesis, from which a dermatologist can glean information about the patient’s lifestyle and his possible contacts with the source of infection - a sick person or animal, a mandatory examination of the lesion under the rays of a UV lamp in a dark room is required. A characteristic feature of the pathogenic fungi Microsporum and Trichophyton is that they fluoresce in ultraviolet light with a pale green glow.

To clarify the genus and species of the pathogen, a scraping is made from the surface of the lesion. If the scalp is affected, several stumps of the affected hair are pulled out. This material is sent for microbiological testing. If necessary, to clarify the species of the fungus, sowing on nutrient media is carried out.

In case of sluggish, atypical forms with pale symptoms, the collection of pathogenic material from the lesion and laboratory tests are carried out repeatedly.

Question answer

What vitamins should you take for pityriasis rosea?

Vitamins B, A and C. They provide the skin with strong immunity, normal moisture, and promote the regeneration of its tissues.

If a person had chickenpox as a child, is it true that he or she may develop shingles?

Yes maybe. Both diseases are caused by the same virus. In a person who once had chickenpox, the virus remains in the body in an inactive state. Under favorable conditions (severe weakening of the immune system), the virus is activated and manifests itself on the body in the form of shingles.

Why does pityriasis versicolor take a chronic form (appears several times a year after treatment)?

This happens to people who tried to cure this form of skin disease on their own. And also with those to whom the disease has been inherited.

What should you eat if you have lichen planus so that the rashes are not so noticeable?

Recommended Products:

Boiled, fresh, baked vegetables (carrots, beets, cucumbers, white cabbage). Fruits (apples, pears, bananas). "Borjomi", spring water. River fish. Porridge (buckwheat, corn and barley grits, oatmeal). Dairy products. Olive and sunflower oil. Lean meat (rabbit, chicken, beef).

Prohibited products:

Smoked meats. Sea fish. Fat meat. Spicy seasonings. Conservation. Citrus. Coffee, black tea. Delicious baked goods.

After lichen planus was cured (it was on the oral mucosa), on the inside of the cheek, periodically, for several years in a row, ulcers appear, do not hurt, and go away on their own. What could it be? Which doctor should I contact?

Since lichen planus is a chronic disease, perhaps this is how its periods of exacerbation manifest themselves. In this case, you should consult a dentist for the purpose of sanitation of the oral cavity (health improvement), and then to the doctor who treated this lichen.

Types of disease

Practitioners by lichen mean not one typical disease, but a whole group of dermatoses with different etiologies of development. Ringworm can be quickly cured, or have a chronic form - manifesting itself sporadically. Below is a list of types of dermatoses classified as lichen group of diseases, as well as a photo of lichen in humans.

Lichen planus

This disease is a consequence of nervous shock and a predisposition to allergic reactions.

It appears most often:

in female representatives;
in patients with diabetes mellitus;
in people suffering from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

This type of lichen is recognized by multiple purple and red nodules. Characterized by strong itching. However, it is not contagious and manifests itself against the background of decreased immunity.

Affects:

skin;
nail plates;
mucous membranes.

The main forms of lichen planus:

ring-shaped rash;
warty, shapeless formations on the skin;
erytomatous tubercles;
erosive and ulcerative rashes.

Eczema

The so-called weeping lichen is a consequence of:

weakened immunity;
genetic and allergic predisposition;
diseases of the central nervous system;
hormonal imbalance;
professional activities with harmful chemicals.

Ringworm affects:

Hands;
forearms;
cheeks;
chin;
neck;
ears;
back;
breast;
soles of feet;
elbows;
knees.

Eczema is not contagious; today the following varieties are known:

idiopathic – characterized by swelling of the skin, rash of blisters, after opening of which painful wounds form;
microbial - manifests itself on areas of the skin affected by chronic infections, characterized by a bluish-purple rash;
occupational - this type of eczema directly depends on a person’s contact with an irritant that causes an allergic reaction in the body, and is characterized by the appearance of a very itchy rash and the formation of pustules;
seborrheic – affects the sebaceous glands, is a scaly itchy layer;
callous - appears on the palms and soles, the resulting rashes thicken the skin, forming seals similar to calluses;
children's - characterized by profuse rashes on the face in children, is a consequence of diathesis.

Psoriasis

Squamous lichen is also non-contagious and manifests itself in full force after:

experienced nervous shocks;
stress;
decreased immunity;
genetic abnormalities.

Psoriasis is the only type of lichen that cannot be cured. This is a chronic form that tends to recur. Psoriasis is recognized by a profuse rash that develops as a tough, flaky crust. It can form on:

elbows;
knees;
scalp;
neck;
back;
shins.

Wounds that form where the crust is bent can fester and be a source of proliferation of other infections.

Ringworm

Versicolor or pityriasis versicolor begins to develop due to:

profuse sweating;
hormonal imbalance;
oily skin type;
long exposure to sunlight.

This type of disease is contagious and is caused by a fungal infection. It is transmitted through household appliances, personal hygiene products, and close contact with a sick person. It is characterized by the formation of spots of various sizes on the body, which unite and cover large areas of the body.

Ringworm affects:

back;
shoulders;
stomach;
breast.

The resulting spots tend to change from their original light pink tint to greenish and dark brown.

Pityriasis rosea

This type of disease is also contagious. Caused by a viral infection. Recognized by round spots with a pronounced pink rim and a pale center.

Pityriasis rosea develops on:

back;
stomach;
breasts;
sides.

It can be transmitted both from close contact with infected people and from pets. The initial stage of tinea versicolor consists of the growth of the maternal spot to a diameter of 4-5 cm.

Shingles

This type of lichen often affects adults who did not have chickenpox in childhood. The causative agent of shingles is the chickenpox virus. An itchy rash of small blisters is localized in the intercostal space.

The course of shingles is characterized by severe pain. This type of dermatous disease is one of the most insidious.

Delayed treatment can provoke:

blindness;
deafness;
paralysis of facial muscles;
muscle weakness throughout the body;
diseases of the nervous system.

It is contagious and spreads from person to person.

Ringworm

The causative agents of this type of infectious disease are fungi - trichophytons. The disease is transmitted from both people and animals, through household and personal items. Infection from pets has more serious consequences; the disease is severe.

Ringworm affects:

scalp;
beard and mustache for men.

Characterized by the appearance of pink spots with white scales along the edges. Ringworm causes hair loss and hair becomes brittle near the roots. Both adults and children are at risk of infection.

Causes of pilaris

Despite the fact that this disease is mainly genetic, this does not mean that a person with this gene will necessarily suffer from lichen.

The disease often affects young men; living in a tropical climate; people prone to excessive sweating. In addition, the following possible causes of this lichen have been identified:

Infectious diseases;
Disruption of the endocrine and nervous systems;
Inability to absorb vitamin A or its deficiency in the body;
Failure to comply with personal hygiene rules;
Poor environmental conditions in the place of residence;
Impairment of barrier functions due to injury;
Reduced immunity.

Tinea pilaris is not a contagious disease, the keratin (protein) that is found in the skin particles can clog the pore (hair follicle) due to which the sebum cannot be released properly, leading to the formation of pimples, i.e. fungi or infections are not related to the occurrence of lichen.

The active development of the disease occurs in the warm season. Inflammation occurs in the deep layers of the epidermis.

Reasons for appearance

Three types of microscopic fungi are considered to be the causative agents of the disease in humans:

zooanthropophilic - can live on the skin of both animals and humans;
anthropophilic - found only in humans;
geophilic - live in the earth.

In addition, lichen is caused by some infections. For example, herpes can remain in the body for many years and appear when immunity decreases.

Treatment depends on the correct identification of the type of lichen in a person. It is impossible to determine the type of fungus by eye. To make an accurate diagnosis, the dermatologist must take a scraper from the site of infection. With the help of professional laboratory equipment, the type of source and the stages of its development are determined. Only after this the doctor prescribes treatment.

Children's lichens

Special attention must be paid to a child with this disease. You need to know what his head looks like. On infected areas of the skin you can find a rough surface with small scales. At the same time, the children feel good.

In some cases, these are areas with a damp surface, with drops of blood coming from the vessels through the thin affected scalp. At the site of the infection, the child experiences hair loss and the formation of bald patches. The clinical picture of the disease in children is often complicated by suppuration of the lesions.

In children, the lesion usually occurs in the erythematous-edematous form. Sleep is disturbed, restlessness, itching, burning in areas of infection, fever, and lymph nodes become inflamed. It is necessary to treat the child immediately, since in children recovery occurs faster after treatment. Pigmentation is restored to normal, and hair grows back quickly, although sometimes persistent baldness lasts a long time.

Pay attention to the diet of the sick child. His diet should contain a lot of vegetables and fruits. To reduce the risk of allergic reactions in a child, you should offer him fermented milk products and avoid eating foods with a high content of additives and flavorings.

How does lichen begin

The appearance of lichen can be triggered by a virus or fungus, so the initial stage of the pathology develops on the skin in different ways. In this article we will look at 7 types of lichen that most often affect the human body.

The growth of a viral or fungal infection can begin with either a small round papule or a small scaly spot.

If the initial stage of the disease is not recognized in a timely manner, which happens when a person is not familiar with its primary symptoms, and the modified skin is treated as an ordinary cosmetic defect (scrubs, cream), then infectious foci will quickly spread throughout the body.

Ringworm usually appears on the body, but red spots of unknown origin may also appear on the face.

To get rid of them, the patient will have to undergo a long course of treatment with antibiotics. And, as you know, these medications are unsafe for the body.

Treatment of pilaris

Treatment of pilaris will depend on its type; it is impossible to independently determine this or that disease, due to the similarity of symptoms, sometimes the symptoms are completely atypical, it depends on the level of immunity. Therefore, the most important thing is to visit a specialist, mainly a dermatologist.

Often, it is enough for an experienced specialist to conduct a routine examination, but to confirm the diagnosis the following may be prescribed:

Laboratory tests - general blood and urine tests to identify concomitant diseases that may cause the development of lichen;
Scraping of rejected skin particles from the affected areas;
Histological test - to exclude the presence of viruses or infections;
Geber's test - using iodine;
Transillumination of the affected areas with a Wood's lamp;

The doctor may also ask questions about how long the symptoms have been onset and whether other family members have them. Based on the survey, examination and tests, the doctor can make the correct diagnosis and prescribe the treatment that suits you.

Treatment of pilaris with medications

As mentioned above, treatment will depend on the type of disease:

Pityriasis rosea does not require treatment; the main therapy is to remove the factor that provokes it - the allergen.
Follicular keratosis - the disease is considered genetic; it is not possible to completely cure it, but taking certain medications will remove the symptoms, and long-term remission is also possible. For this type of lichen, it is prescribed to take medications containing vitamin A, apply an ointment containing caratine components to soften the skin to the affected areas of the skin, they may prescribe a therapeutic diet and recommend sunbathing;
Lichen planus, which affects the scalp, is treated with complex vitamins, salicylic ointment or containing vitamin A, tablets and ointments with corticosteroids (have anti-inflammatory properties). Ultraviolet irradiation also gives positive results;
Ringworm - tablets with an antifungal effect, ointments that have an antimycotic effect, solutions with an antibacterial effect are prescribed.

To consolidate drug therapy, the doctor may recommend lotions:

Based on lactic acid – has a softening effect;
Contains glycolic acid - to retain moisture, which will reduce the risk of skin keratinization;
Based on salicylic acid – softens the skin and relieves itching;
Containing substances with a pronounced antifungal effect.

For many types, a common symptom is itching, so taking antihistamines (anti-allergic) is indicated; if lichen is found in a child and causes an increase in body temperature, then antipyretic medications are prescribed (symptomatic therapy).

Treatment of pilaris with folk remedies

There are many ways to treat pilaris with folk remedies, but all of them should be an addition, not the main therapy, and be sure to discuss it with your doctor before using any method.

Folk methods include herbal decoctions, herbal lotions, and tinctures. All herbs can be purchased at the pharmacy; you can make the tincture yourself or buy ready-made ones.

You should be wary of traditional medicine recipes containing vinegar, citric acid, garlic or onion, because such methods can cause a burn, which will increase discomfort and cause pain.

Some herbs have an astringent effect, which may be contraindicated for pityriasis rosea because it will cause discomfort due to skin tightness.

The most popular means:

Elecampane decoction has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Chamomile, chamomile, calendula - have an antiallergic and bactericidal effect, and can cause dry skin.
Tar soap – has antibacterial and antifungal properties. When purchasing, pay attention to the color of the bar; the darker the better.
Raisins - have properties that can have a detrimental effect on the fungus.

Decoctions can be used internally, in the form of lotions or added to the bath; tinctures are most often used in the form of lotions or used to wipe the affected areas.

Only your doctor will tell you which method is right for you. Do not self-medicate.

Variegated or pityriasis

A very long-term disease, symptoms change over time. The source of spread is on the body (back, abdomen, chest, shoulders).

Spots of irregular shape appear in these areas. If the skin is tanned, then they will be lighter than the main tone. When the tan fades, the spots darken and change color to brown. Peeling with this type of disease is minimal.

If this type of lichen appears in a person, as shown in the photo, then he should adhere to the following treatment. First of all, you need to consult a dermatologist, and also use various creams, such as salicylic ointment, Lamisil or Terbinafine. Among other things, it is possible to use special antifungal tablets: such as Ketoconazole or Itraconazole.

initial stage

At the early stage of the disease, no obvious foci of infection are visible, but the patient locally experiences a feeling of itching, burning, and internal discomfort. Over time, nodules and weeping bubbles, which are water-based, appear. Under the influence of provoking factors, they burst and unite, causing itching and visible swelling. Over time, symptoms of the appearance of plaques cannot be ruled out, which radically change the structure of the skin, making it dry and prone to peeling. So the clinical picture is not limited to skin itching.

Reasons for development

The manifestation of lichen rash is associated with factors such as:

reduction or absence of the body’s immune defense - this can occur after illnesses that weaken the body’s internal reserves;
unformed immunity in children;
experienced stress and anxiety;
heredity;
infection with infectious diseases;
emotional and physical stress;
severe chronic diseases;
hypothermia;
increased sweating;
seborrhea of the head;
failure to comply with personal hygiene rules;
close contacts with a source of infection;
herpes virus;
hepatitis virus type 3;
ailments of the digestive system;
allergic predisposition;
HIV infection;
diabetes;
liver diseases;
the body's reaction to medications.

The mechanism of infection with lichen is still unknown; children, elderly and sick people are primarily at risk. Cases of the disease depriving absolutely healthy people cannot be ruled out. Also, lichen differs from other skin diseases in its seasonality; in spring and autumn there is a high probability of catching it. The body develops a stable immunity to many types of this disease.

Prevention

To avoid having to treat lichen for the whole family when there is a sick person in the house, you need to take preventive measures. You need to use modern anti-fungal remedies, which include special shampoos, tea tree and lavender oils, and turpentine.

All things and linen of a sick person should be washed separately, and items in his use should be disinfected. You need to especially carefully monitor the behavior of a child who cannot take care of himself, otherwise treatment may be delayed. Wet cleaning should be carried out at least twice a day. Family members of sick people should visit a dermatologist to check their condition. It is better for the patient to wear a hat so as not to spread fungal spores. If these conditions are met, treatment will proceed faster. Therefore, do not forget about prevention.

The appearance of symptoms of the disease in any person, and especially in children, should be a signal to visit a doctor who will provide qualified assistance.

Causes of infection are deprived

The main reason is contact with vectors, pathogens, there are a huge number of contributing factors, for example, the risk of getting sick will be much higher if the patient:

I recently got sick.
I ate poorly.
Overcooled.
Takes few vitamins.

Transmission routes

Most often, the manifestation of their vital activity can be found in those patients who:

They ignore the rules of personal hygiene.
They do not comply with sanitary rules.
By means of household items, cutlery.
To places of public transport.
In kindergartens, schools, swimming pools.

Is lichen contagious or not?

The diagnosis is usually made by a dermatologist or mycologist. The doctor examines the patient visually and takes special samples. But the diagnosis is made after a luminescent test.

For each type of lichen that forms on the hand, its own special test is carried out, that is, they shine under a Wood’s lamp.

To identify the type of fungus, the following is taken from the child’s skin:

Skin scraping under a light microscope.
Bacterial culture of the separated material is done.
In some cases, a biopsy of cells in the arm is done.
Study the composition of cells and tissues.
Get blood tests.

Fungal

Symptoms of the initial stage of lichen caused by fungal microorganisms can be different. It all depends on what type of fungus and on what part of the body provoked its appearance. The fungus lives on the skin and feeds on keratin (the protein with which the epidermis is formed).

Note. Infection of the skin with a fungal infection occurs through contact and household contact (through household items, non-compliance with hygiene rules when visiting a swimming pool, public shower).

Pityriasis

Synonyms: colored, multi-colored lichen. Most often, the disease appears in the summer in people with excessive sweating. The causative agent of the skin disease is the fungus Pityrosporum Orbiculare, which infects the cells of the epidermis, which causes a violation of skin pigmentation. Description of the initial stage of pathology development:

Small pink and yellow spots appear on the skin.
The lesions are located close to each other, as a result of which they form one large spot (they can exist in isolation).
After 1 - 2 days, the spots change their color to brown, become scaly and rough to the touch.

Note! The scales of pityriasis versicolor are not noticeable at the beginning of the disease, but if you scratch the pathological spot with a fingernail, you can observe its peeling.

Recommendations for the treatment of the initial stage of pityriasis versicolor:

As soon as lichen spots appear on the skin, treat them with ointments with antibacterial and antifungal effects. The drugs Clotrimazole and Ketoconazole help solve the problem; they destroy the fungus and soften the skin. Carry out the procedure for applying the ointment until the skin is completely restored.
If pityriasis versicolor has formed on the scalp, then use Ketoconazole shampoo or Sulsena paste to treat it.
In case of lichen, you should provide support to the body from the inside, which will speed up its recovery (antifungal tablets "Mycozoral" or "Fungotherbin").

Of the folk recipes used to treat pityriasis versicolor, natural birch tar is popular. The product is sold in pharmacies and is an oily dark liquid with a specific odor.

This article contains material about such a disease as pityriasis versicolor. To understand how this type of lichen begins and how it can be cured, read here.

How to use: treat the affected skin with tar at night, and in the morning wash it off with warm soapy water using tar soap foam. Repeat the procedure every evening until recovery. During treatment, it is better to take sick leave or vacation, as a strong unpleasant odor will emanate from you.

Result: tar restores the top layer of skin, has an antimicrobial and antiseptic effect.

Ringworm (microsporia)

If ringworm appears on a person’s scalp, it “cuts off” the hairs and the person goes bald. The causative agent of this form of skin pathology is dermatophyte fungi of the genus Microsporum.

After fungal spores enter the skin with microscopic particles of skin or fragments of fur (infection can occur from a person or an animal), they penetrate deep into the skin, where they begin to multiply. As a result, the following changes are observed on the affected surface:

On the skin of the body. The process of development of pathology begins with the formation of a small red spot. Most often, the infected person does not notice its appearance, although the spot makes itself felt with mild itching. This is the initial stage of the disease. Then the infectious focus begins to increase in size, its diameter can reach 10 cm. During the growth period, a border of small red pimples appears around the infectious spot. The same pathological spots form nearby.
On the scalp. If ringworm has formed on the scalp in the hair growth area, you can notice this by its dull, lifeless color and loss of volume. Under the hair there are small infectious spots covered with gray-white scales. After 2 - 3 weeks, the hairs break off almost at the roots.

In the following video, a dermatologist will tell you how to recognize the initial stage of ringworm on the body and scalp:

Treatment of the initial stage of microsporia involves the use of the following medications:

Alcohol solution of iodine 5% - used to treat smooth skin in the morning. In the evening, sulfur-salicylic ointment 5 - 10% is used for this purpose. The procedures are repeated until the skin is completely healed.

Note. The skin on the scalp is also treated according to the indicated scheme, but in order to speed up recovery and more convenient application of medications, the hair in the affected area is cut once a week.

To wash your hair, use tar shampoo once every 2 days. Or a daily herbal decoction, prepared according to the following recipe:

Ingredients:

Sequence - 2 tbsp. l.
Celandine - 1 tbsp. l.
Horsetail - 0.5 tbsp.
Cool boiling water - 1 tbsp.

How to prepare: pour boiling water over the herbal mixture and let it steep for 60 minutes. Strain.

How to use: every evening, wipe the affected scalp with the medicinal liquid and let it dry naturally.

Result: the tincture prevents the appearance of new elements of the rash, destroys the fungus, and speeds up recovery.

Nail microsporia

Ringworm affects not only the skin, but also the nails. How to know if your nails are at risk of destruction:

At the earliest stage of development, lichen does not manifest itself in any way. And yet, during this period, the structure of the nail plate begins to change imperceptibly. The nail becomes brittle, but this can only be noticed when it is cut.
After some time, the nail, closer to the edge, changes color to dull yellow or white and begins to crumble.

Tips for treating the initial stage of ringworm on the nail:

Buy the antifungal drug “Nogtivit” at the pharmacy (approximate cost 142 rubles), with its help you can quickly cure lichen.
Steam your nails in soap and soda water (solution: 1 liter of hot water, 1 teaspoon each of liquid tar soap and baking soda). Wipe dry.
Take an adhesive plaster and stick it around the sore nail, which will prevent the drug from getting on healthy skin.
Apply the product to the sore spot in a thick layer, and apply a patch on top.
After 4 days, remove the adhesive plaster, steam your nails in a soap-soda solution and remove the exfoliated diseased layer using a nail file.

Note! To treat the initial stage of nail deprivation, one such procedure is sufficient. But if the pathology is advanced, then treatment is performed until the nail plate is completely cleared of the fungus.

Causes

The main cause of lichen is considered to be microscopic fungi that live on the skin of people and animals. Damage to the scalp begins when a fungus is localized on it and obtains food for itself in the form of keratin, formed in the stratum corneum. When the immune system is healthy, a person does not become infected.

A weakened body, for example, after a long illness or in a state of stress for a long time, is susceptible to any infections, including fungal ones. Most often, the disease is diagnosed in a child, since he has more contact with domestic animals that are carriers of this infection.

Treatment options

Treatment of non-contagious types of lichen comes down to the prescription of antihistamines, vitamin therapy, immunostimulants, physical and psychotherapeutic measures. Along with this, corticosteroid ointments are used externally.
Treatment of eczema takes a long period of time. The patient is prescribed hormonal medications in the form of ointments, antihistamines, and immunomodulators.
Ringworm is treated with topical and oral antifungal medications. The patient is recommended to take measures aimed at strengthening the body’s immune system and avoid unhealthy foods such as smoked meats, pickles, and sweets during treatment.
Shingles can be defeated with the help of antiviral drugs that effectively affect the herpes infection. Also, due attention should be paid to taking immunostimulants and painkillers. Treatment of shingles is not complete without reflexology and ultraviolet irradiation of the skin.
Ringworm requires isolation of the patient; in case of a complex course of the disease, he is subject to mandatory hospitalization. Drug therapy consists of taking antifungal medications, treating the rash with iodine, sulfur-salicylic or tar ointments.