What is pityriasis rosea?
Pityriasis rosea is an infectious exanthem most likely caused by the herpes VI-VII viruses on the skin. Unlike other rashes, pityriasis rosea is not contagious and does not require specific treatment. The condition usually lasts an average of one to two months and often disappears on its own, but often recurs even years later.
No. Despite the appearance of patches, pityriasis rosea is caused by a virus and is therefore not a fungal infection.
What does pityriasis rosea look like?
First, a slightly or non-itchy red spot appears which tends to expand into an oval shape in the following days. This patch is called the mother patch. Subsequently, numerous other patches appear with the same characteristic but smaller in size, mainly involving the trunk and arms with varying degrees of itching.
The patches take on a pink colour, hence the name of the disease, and can be few and barely visible or many and very visible.
How is it recognized?
Pityriasis rosea is particular in that it arises from a single, herald patch. The condition is also easily recognisable for the arrangement of the patches, which usually appear in diagonal lines leading away from the trunk, taking on a form similar to a Christmas tree.
How to treat Pityriasis rosea
Throughout the exanthem phase the skin is particularly delicate and irritable therefore it is recommended to:
- Cleanse with Eudermic Cleansing Base.
- After washing apply Lenitive Cream to relieve itching and protect the skin.
Recommended products:
Further insights