Sun and ultraviolet exposure
Discuss appropriate sun protection with your healthcare team. Practical protection may include shade, protective clothing and suitable sunscreen.
Skin & sun
Protect your skin and document changes clearly.
Lupus can affect the skin, and ultraviolet exposure can worsen some skin manifestations or trigger symptoms in some people.
This information is educational. It does not diagnose your condition or replace advice from your healthcare team.
Document a rash
Photographs can help show how a rash changes. Note when it began, where it appeared, whether it itches or hurts, sun exposure and any new medicines or products.
Not every rash is lupus
Rashes have many causes. A new skin change should not automatically be labeled a lupus flare.
Hair changes
Hair loss can occur for different reasons, including lupus activity, scalp inflammation, medicines or unrelated conditions. The pattern and timing matter.
When to seek assessment
Rapidly worsening, painful, blistering, infected-looking or otherwise concerning skin changes deserve clinical assessment.
What should I do now?
Write down new or changing symptoms.Keep your medicines and recent results organized.Prepare your most important questions before your visit.Seek medical assessment promptly for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.
Editorial status
Last editorial update: October 2026.
Internal medical review: Pending documented clinician review. NA7N does not claim medical review before it occurs.