What are the approach considerations for treating shingles. How effective are topical treatments for herpes zoster. What pharmacologic therapies are available for shingles relief. Is Burrows solution an effective option for managing shingles symptoms.

Understanding Shingles: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevalence

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox. This condition is characterized by a painful rash that typically appears on one side of the body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 3 people in the United States will develop shingles during their lifetime.

The typical duration of a shingles outbreak is 3-5 weeks, during which individuals may experience significant discomfort as the rash progresses through stages of blistering and crusting. While there is currently no known cure for shingles, various treatment options are available to manage symptoms and promote healing.

Aluminum Acetate: A Potential Topical Treatment for Shingles

Aluminum acetate is a chemical compound found in some topical products designed to alleviate skin irritation. While not specifically marketed for shingles treatment, some individuals consider using aluminum acetate to help manage the symptoms associated with the condition.

Aluminum acetate functions as an astringent, causing tissues such as the skin to tighten or contract. This action can help reduce inflammation, itching, and stinging. The compound is available in various formulations, including creams, gels, and a powder that can be mixed with water to create Burow’s solution.

Effectiveness of Aluminum Acetate for Shingles

Despite its potential benefits, there is limited scientific evidence supporting the use of aluminum acetate specifically for shingles relief. Most product labels do not list treating shingles as a recommended use. The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) labeling requirements mention aluminum acetate for temporary relief of rashes caused by soaps, detergents, cosmetics, jewelry, or plants, but do not include shingles in this list.

However, some sources suggest that aluminum acetate may help alleviate shingles symptoms and dry out blisters. It’s important to note that while aluminum acetate may provide some relief, it is not considered a primary treatment for shingles.

Approach Considerations for Shingles Treatment

When developing a treatment plan for shingles, healthcare providers consider several factors:

• The patient’s age and overall health status
• The severity and location of the rash
• The time elapsed since symptom onset
• Potential complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia
• Existing medical conditions that may affect treatment choices

A comprehensive approach to shingles management typically involves a combination of antiviral medications, pain relief strategies, and topical treatments to address both the underlying viral infection and the associated symptoms.

Topical Treatments for Herpes Zoster

Topical treatments play a crucial role in managing the discomfort associated with shingles. While aluminum acetate may be considered, other options are more commonly recommended:

1. Calamine lotion: Helps soothe itching and dry out blisters
2. Capsaicin cream: May reduce pain by desensitizing nerve endings
3. Lidocaine patches or gels: Provide localized pain relief
4. Cool compresses: Help reduce inflammation and soothe the affected area
5. Colloidal oatmeal baths: Offer relief from itching and irritation

The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) recommends using damp washcloths, oatmeal soaks, and calamine lotion to minimize discomfort associated with shingles.

Pharmacologic Therapy for Herpes Zoster

Antiviral medications form the cornerstone of pharmacologic therapy for shingles. These drugs help reduce the severity and duration of the outbreak by inhibiting viral replication. Commonly prescribed antiviral medications include:

• Acyclovir (Zovirax)
• Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
• Famciclovir (Famvir)

For optimal efficacy, antiviral treatment should be initiated within 72 hours of rash onset. In addition to antivirals, healthcare providers may recommend pain management strategies, including:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
• Prescription pain medications for severe cases
• Tricyclic antidepressants or anticonvulsants for persistent nerve pain

Burrows Solution: An Alternative Topical Treatment

Burrows solution, also known as aluminum acetate solution, is a topical astringent that may be used to relieve symptoms associated with various skin conditions, including shingles. While not specifically approved for shingles treatment, some healthcare providers may recommend it as an adjunct therapy.

How to Use Burrows Solution

To use Burrows solution for shingles relief:

1. Mix 1-3 packets of aluminum acetate powder in 16 ounces of cool or warm water
2. Stir until fully dissolved
3. Soak the affected area for 15-30 minutes, up to three times daily
4. Alternatively, apply as a compress using a clean, soft cloth soaked in the solution
5. Discard the solution after each use

It’s important to note that Burrows solution may cause skin irritation in some individuals. Always perform a patch test before widespread application and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Shingles

In addition to conventional treatments, some individuals explore complementary and alternative therapies to manage shingles symptoms. While scientific evidence supporting these approaches may be limited, some patients report benefits from:

• Acupuncture: May help reduce pain and promote healing
• Tai chi: Could potentially boost immune function and reduce stress
• Vitamin supplements: Particularly vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc
• Herbal remedies: Such as licorice root or lemon balm

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating any complementary therapies into a shingles treatment plan, as some may interact with medications or have unintended side effects.

Prevention Strategies: Reducing the Risk of Shingles

While treatment options for shingles continue to evolve, prevention remains a key focus in managing this condition. The most effective preventive measure is vaccination. Two vaccines are currently available for shingles prevention:

1. Shingrix: A recombinant zoster vaccine recommended for adults 50 years and older
2. Zostavax: A live attenuated vaccine, now largely replaced by Shingrix due to its higher efficacy

The CDC recommends Shingrix for healthy adults 50 years and older, as well as for individuals who have previously received Zostavax. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of developing shingles and can also lessen the severity of symptoms if an outbreak does occur.

Lifestyle Factors for Shingles Prevention

In addition to vaccination, certain lifestyle factors may help reduce the risk of shingles outbreaks:

• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices
• Maintaining a healthy diet rich in immune-boosting nutrients
• Getting regular exercise to support overall health and immune function
• Ensuring adequate sleep and rest
• Avoiding known triggers, such as excessive sun exposure or certain medications

By combining preventive strategies with prompt treatment when necessary, individuals can minimize the impact of shingles on their quality of life.

Special Considerations for High-Risk Populations

Certain groups may be at higher risk for developing shingles or experiencing complications from the condition. These populations require special consideration in terms of prevention and treatment approaches:

Elderly Individuals

Older adults are more susceptible to shingles due to natural declines in immune function. For this group, early intervention and aggressive treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as postherpetic neuralgia.

Immunocompromised Patients

Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or living with HIV/AIDS, are at increased risk for severe shingles outbreaks. These patients may require longer courses of antiviral therapy and closer monitoring during treatment.

Pregnant Women

Shingles during pregnancy is rare but can occur. Treatment options may be limited due to potential risks to the fetus. Close collaboration between obstetricians and infectious disease specialists is essential in managing these cases.

Children and Adolescents

While shingles is less common in younger individuals, it can occur. Pediatric cases may present differently and require adjustments in treatment approaches, particularly regarding medication dosages and formulations.

For these high-risk groups, a personalized treatment plan that considers individual risk factors and potential complications is crucial for optimal outcomes.

Emerging Therapies and Future Directions in Shingles Management

As research in the field of herpes zoster management continues to advance, several promising therapies and approaches are on the horizon:

Novel Antiviral Agents

Researchers are exploring new antiviral compounds that may offer improved efficacy or reduced side effects compared to current options. These include:

• Amenamevir: A helicase-primase inhibitor showing potential in early clinical trials
• FV-100: A nucleoside analogue designed to target varicella-zoster virus more specifically

Immunomodulatory Therapies

Approaches that target the immune system’s response to the varicella-zoster virus are under investigation. These may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms more effectively than current treatments.

Advanced Pain Management Techniques

Innovative pain management strategies for acute and chronic shingles-related pain are being developed, including:

• Nerve blocks using long-acting local anesthetics
• Neuromodulation techniques for persistent pain
• Novel topical formulations for enhanced drug delivery

Improved Vaccine Technologies

Ongoing research aims to enhance the efficacy and accessibility of shingles vaccines. Future developments may include:

• Single-dose vaccine formulations
• Vaccines suitable for immunocompromised individuals
• Approaches to extend the duration of vaccine-induced immunity

As these emerging therapies progress through clinical trials and become available, they have the potential to significantly improve the prevention and management of shingles, offering hope for reduced incidence and better outcomes for those affected by this challenging condition.

In conclusion, while Burrows solution and aluminum acetate may offer some relief for shingles symptoms, they are not considered primary treatments. A comprehensive approach involving antiviral medications, pain management strategies, and appropriate topical treatments remains the gold standard for managing herpes zoster infections. As research progresses, new and improved therapies may emerge, potentially revolutionizing shingles prevention and treatment in the future.

What is aluminum acetate, and can it help treat shingles?

Aluminum acetate is a chemical present in some topical products designed to help relieve skin irritation. Some people may consider using aluminum acetate to alleviate symptoms of the characteristic painful rash associated with shingles.

Shingles is a viral infection that occurs following the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the virus responsible for chickenpox. Shingles is relatively common, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggesting that about 1 in 3 people in the United States will develop shingles during their lifetime.

A common symptom of shingles is a painful rash that usually appears on one side of the body. Most cases of shingles last for 3–5 weeks, during which a person may experience discomfort from the rash blistering and crusting over.

Although there is currently no known cure for shingles, many treatment options are available. As aluminum acetate can help reduce irritation and itching, people with shingles may consider using it to relieve their symptoms. However, this is not a common use for the product, and aluminum acetate itself can sometimes cause allergic skin reactions.

In this article, we discuss aluminum acetate, its uses, and whether it can help with shingles.

Aluminum acetate is a topical astringent that people can use for the temporary relief of skin irritation. The product is available in different formulations, such as creams, gels, and a powder that people may mix with water to form a solution known as Burow’s solution. The different products typically contain 0.13–0.5% aluminum acetate.

As an astringent, aluminum acetate causes tissues, such as the skin, to tighten or contract, which can help treat inflammation, itching, and stinging. The medication is available over the counter (OTC) in many pharmacies and drugstores.

Although people may use aluminum acetate as a topical astringent, there is not much evidence to suggest that it is useful for relieving the symptoms of shingles.

Many product labels do not list treating shingles as a potential use for aluminum acetate. According to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) labeling requirements, aluminum acetate can provide temporary relief from rashes resulting from soaps, detergents, cosmetics, jewelry, or plants, but there is no mention of shingles.

However, some sources note that aluminum acetate can help relieve the symptoms of this condition and dry out the blisters.

The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) indicates that people can medically treat shingles by taking antivirals or anti-inflammatories, but to minimize discomfort, the organization suggests using damp washcloths, oatmeal soaks, and calamine lotion.

Learn more about choosing creams for shingles.

Aluminum acetate can help relieve the pain and itching that result from minor skin conditions, such as:

• rashes from poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac
• insect bites
• minor burns
• athlete’s foot
• rashes due to soaps, detergents, cosmetics, or jewelry

It is important to note that aluminum acetate can sometimes cause skin irritation rather than treating it. Due to this, a person using this product for the first time should apply it with caution and check for any side effects. They should also avoid using aluminum acetate near their eyes, as it can cause serious eye irritation.

Product labels may advise that individuals stop using the product and seek medical assistance if the skin condition worsens or the symptoms persist. As the product is only suitable for external use, it is also advisable to keep it out of the reach of children and to seek immediate medical help if a person swallows it.

A person should follow the instructions on the product label when applying the aluminum acetate. For topical forms, such as creams and gels, people can just apply the product to the skin as necessary. Those looking to use a soak or wet dressing will need to dissolve one to three packets in 16 ounces of cool or warm water and stir until fully dissolved.

People can use aluminum acetate as a soak by:

• soaking the affected area for 15–30 minutes as necessary or as a doctor has directed
• repeating this three times a day
• discarding the solution after each use

People can use it as a compress by:

• soaking a clean, soft cloth in the solution
• applying the cloth loosely to the affected area for 15–30 minutes
• repeating this as necessary or according to a doctor’s instructions
• discarding the solution after each use

People can use a variety of prescription drugs, OTC medications, and home remedies to try to treat shingles. These include:

Antiviral medications

Examples of antiviral drugs that doctors may prescribe to treat shingles include:

• acyclovir (Zovirax)
• famciclovir (Famvir)
• valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Antiviral medicines are most effective when a person starts them within 2–3 days of the shingles rash appearing.

Pain and anti-inflammatory medication

A person may take OTC pain relievers to help alleviate shingles pain. Also, a doctor may prescribe certain medications to help with pain relief. Examples include:

• lidocaine transdermal patch
• tricyclic antidepressants, such as nortriptyline (Pamelor)
• gabapentin (Neurontin)
• pregabalin (Lyrica)
• corticosteroids

Home remedies

Possible home remedies for shingles include:

• taking oatmeal baths, which may help relieve itching
• applying calamine lotion
• practicing regular stress management techniques
• getting enough sleep
• eating nutritious foods to help boost the immune system

Shingles vaccination

The CDC recommends that healthy adults aged 50 years and older receive the shingles vaccine, known as Shingrix. A pharmacist or doctor gives a person two doses of the vaccine 2–6 months apart.

Aluminum acetate is a widely available topical treatment that helps relieve skin irritation. Some people may consider using it to provide relief from a painful shingles rash. However, it is advisable to discuss this with a doctor, as aluminum acetate can further irritate the skin.

Other treatment options, such as antivirals, can help treat shingles, while the Shingrix vaccine can help prevent it. People may also consider other home remedies, such as oatmeal baths, calamine lotion, and stress reduction techniques.

What is aluminum acetate, and can it help treat shingles?

Aluminum acetate is a chemical present in some topical products designed to help relieve skin irritation. Some people may consider using aluminum acetate to alleviate symptoms of the characteristic painful rash associated with shingles.

Shingles is a viral infection that occurs following the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the virus responsible for chickenpox. Shingles is relatively common, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggesting that about 1 in 3 people in the United States will develop shingles during their lifetime.

A common symptom of shingles is a painful rash that usually appears on one side of the body. Most cases of shingles last for 3–5 weeks, during which a person may experience discomfort from the rash blistering and crusting over.

Although there is currently no known cure for shingles, many treatment options are available. As aluminum acetate can help reduce irritation and itching, people with shingles may consider using it to relieve their symptoms. However, this is not a common use for the product, and aluminum acetate itself can sometimes cause allergic skin reactions.

In this article, we discuss aluminum acetate, its uses, and whether it can help with shingles.

Aluminum acetate is a topical astringent that people can use for the temporary relief of skin irritation. The product is available in different formulations, such as creams, gels, and a powder that people may mix with water to form a solution known as Burow’s solution. The different products typically contain 0.13–0.5% aluminum acetate.

As an astringent, aluminum acetate causes tissues, such as the skin, to tighten or contract, which can help treat inflammation, itching, and stinging. The medication is available over the counter (OTC) in many pharmacies and drugstores.

Although people may use aluminum acetate as a topical astringent, there is not much evidence to suggest that it is useful for relieving the symptoms of shingles.

Many product labels do not list treating shingles as a potential use for aluminum acetate. According to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) labeling requirements, aluminum acetate can provide temporary relief from rashes resulting from soaps, detergents, cosmetics, jewelry, or plants, but there is no mention of shingles.

However, some sources note that aluminum acetate can help relieve the symptoms of this condition and dry out the blisters.

The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) indicates that people can medically treat shingles by taking antivirals or anti-inflammatories, but to minimize discomfort, the organization suggests using damp washcloths, oatmeal soaks, and calamine lotion.

Learn more about choosing creams for shingles.

Aluminum acetate can help relieve the pain and itching that result from minor skin conditions, such as:

• rashes from poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac
• insect bites
• minor burns
• athlete’s foot
• rashes due to soaps, detergents, cosmetics, or jewelry

It is important to note that aluminum acetate can sometimes cause skin irritation rather than treating it. Due to this, a person using this product for the first time should apply it with caution and check for any side effects. They should also avoid using aluminum acetate near their eyes, as it can cause serious eye irritation.

Product labels may advise that individuals stop using the product and seek medical assistance if the skin condition worsens or the symptoms persist. As the product is only suitable for external use, it is also advisable to keep it out of the reach of children and to seek immediate medical help if a person swallows it.

A person should follow the instructions on the product label when applying the aluminum acetate. For topical forms, such as creams and gels, people can just apply the product to the skin as necessary. Those looking to use a soak or wet dressing will need to dissolve one to three packets in 16 ounces of cool or warm water and stir until fully dissolved.

People can use aluminum acetate as a soak by:

• soaking the affected area for 15–30 minutes as necessary or as a doctor has directed
• repeating this three times a day
• discarding the solution after each use

People can use it as a compress by:

• soaking a clean, soft cloth in the solution
• applying the cloth loosely to the affected area for 15–30 minutes
• repeating this as necessary or according to a doctor’s instructions
• discarding the solution after each use

People can use a variety of prescription drugs, OTC medications, and home remedies to try to treat shingles. These include:

Antiviral medications

Examples of antiviral drugs that doctors may prescribe to treat shingles include:

• acyclovir (Zovirax)
• famciclovir (Famvir)
• valacyclovir (Valtrex)

Antiviral medicines are most effective when a person starts them within 2–3 days of the shingles rash appearing.

Pain and anti-inflammatory medication

A person may take OTC pain relievers to help alleviate shingles pain. Also, a doctor may prescribe certain medications to help with pain relief. Examples include:

• lidocaine transdermal patch
• tricyclic antidepressants, such as nortriptyline (Pamelor)
• gabapentin (Neurontin)
• pregabalin (Lyrica)
• corticosteroids

Home remedies

Possible home remedies for shingles include:

• taking oatmeal baths, which may help relieve itching
• applying calamine lotion
• practicing regular stress management techniques
• getting enough sleep
• eating nutritious foods to help boost the immune system

Shingles vaccination

The CDC recommends that healthy adults aged 50 years and older receive the shingles vaccine, known as Shingrix. A pharmacist or doctor gives a person two doses of the vaccine 2–6 months apart.

Aluminum acetate is a widely available topical treatment that helps relieve skin irritation. Some people may consider using it to provide relief from a painful shingles rash. However, it is advisable to discuss this with a doctor, as aluminum acetate can further irritate the skin.

Other treatment options, such as antivirals, can help treat shingles, while the Shingrix vaccine can help prevent it. People may also consider other home remedies, such as oatmeal baths, calamine lotion, and stress reduction techniques.

ranking of the top 7 effective and inexpensive remedies according to the KP with doctors’ reviews

Zhibera pink lichen is an acute inflammatory skin disease, presumably of an infectious nature ¹ .

Pityriasis rosea is more common in spring or autumn. First, a red-pink spot with a yellowish-brown scaly center appears on the body, up to 5 cm in diameter, which is called the “maternal plaque” ² . A few days later, a rash appears all over the torso, arms and legs. In most cases, the general well-being of the patient does not worsen, but sometimes there may be irritation, itching, a slight increase in temperature ³ .

Pityriasis rosea usually does not require any treatment. If there are no complications, the disease resolves on its own within a few weeks. If the patient complains of irritation and itching, special ointments can be prescribed to speed up recovery.

Rating of the top 7 inexpensive ointments for pink lichen according to the KP version

To reduce itching, the doctor may prescribe glucocorticosteroids (GCS) and antihistamines ³ . Below we will talk about the various ointments that are indicated for the treatment of pink lichen ³ .

Important! All drugs have side effects and contraindications. Our material is an overview and does not serve as a guide to action. Before buying funds, consult your doctor.

Hydrocortisone-AKOS

The manufacturer did not fantasize with the name: the name of the active substance is indicated in large letters on the package. Hydrocortisone refers to synthetic hormones glucocorticosteroids, has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects.

It is used to treat a wide range of diseases, including pink lichen, neurodermatitis, psoriasis, allergic dermatitis and others. In addition, the ointment can help with insect bites.

Contraindications : bacterial, viral, fungal skin diseases, skin tuberculosis, skin manifestations of syphilis, skin tumors and wounds, post-vaccination period, children under 2 years of age, rosacea, acne vulgaris.

Laticort

Another topical glucocorticosteroid based on hydrocortisone. According to the instructions, the drug has anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous and antipruritic effects.

The ointment can help with non-infectious skin diseases accompanied by severe peeling. It is used not only for the treatment of pink lichen, but also for seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and skin eczema.

Contraindications : bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic infections of the skin, tuberculosis and syphilitic skin lesions, acne, rosacea, post-vaccination period, violation of the integrity of the skin, hypersensitivity to the drug, pregnancy, lactation.

Lokoid

This medicine also contains hydrocortisone, which helps reduce inflammation, swelling and itching. The drug is used for non-infected skin diseases: dermatitis, psoriasis, reactions to insect bites, skin itching of various origins.

Contraindications : bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections of the skin, tuberculous and syphilitic skin lesions, acne, rosacea, post-vaccination period, wounds, ulcers, hypersensitivity to the drug, pregnancy, lactation.

Komfoderm

The ointment belongs to glucocorticosteroids for external use. The active ingredient methylprednisolone aceponate helps to suppress inflammatory and allergic skin reactions, helps to reduce swelling, itching, irritation and pain. Indications for the use of the ointment are atopic and allergic dermatitis, eczema of various origins.

Contraindications : tuberculosis or syphilitic processes on the skin, viral diseases in the area of ​​application of the drug, rosacea, post-vaccination reactions, children under 4 months of age, hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Afloderm

The ointment is based on alklomethasone, a glucocorticosteroid with anti-inflammatory, vasoconstrictive and antipruritic effects. The drug is recommended for the treatment of chronic and acute dermatoses, inflammatory skin diseases, especially with dryness and flaking. Therefore, this ointment can help in the fight against irritation and itching with pink lichen.

Contraindications : skin tuberculosis, skin manifestations of syphilis, chickenpox, viral skin infections, skin reactions to vaccination, open wounds, trophic ulcers, rosacea, acne vulgaris, children under 6 months of age, hypersensitivity to alklomethasone.

Advantan

The active substance of the drug is methylprednisolone aceponate – GCS, which helps to reduce the symptoms of inflammation, itching, pain and irritation.

Ointment helps to eliminate dry skin and restore its normal fat content. Indications for the use of the drug are atopic and allergic dermatitis, eczema.

Contraindications : viral, tuberculous or syphilitic skin lesions in the area of ​​application of the drug, rosacea, skin areas with manifestations of a reaction to vaccination, children under 4 months of age, hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Pimafucort

This drug can help in case of complications of rosacea if a bacterial or fungal infection has joined. In the composition, in addition to hydrocortisone, two more active substances: natamycin (antifungal agent) and neomycin (antibiotic). The combination of these components has an antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory effect.

Contraindications : skin tuberculosis, skin manifestations of syphilis, viral skin infections, open wounds, skin ulcers, acne, rosacea, ichthyosis, hypersensitivity to the drug components, age up to 1 year.

How to choose a rosacea ointment for a person

As a rule, when prescribing treatment, doctors are guided by the clinical recommendations of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. According to these recommendations, Gibert’s pink lichen does not need to be treated unless there are complications and annoying symptoms. If the patient complains of severe itching, the doctor may prescribe glucocorticosteroids, as well as antihistamines.

Rosacea ointment should have anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effect at any stage of the disease. It should be easy to use and with a minimum of side effects ⁴ .

Reviews of doctors about ointments from pink lichen

Usually, doctors recommend not only external use (ointments, emulsions, creams), but also oral medication – that is, inside.

– As you already understood, the treatment of pink lichen is a simple matter. And even if it is necessary, it is possible to cope with the help of 1-2 drugs, says dermatologist Alexander Chizhov . “Therefore, you should consult a doctor first of all to establish a diagnosis. Indeed, under the guise of an almost harmless pink lichen, psoriasis, eczema and other diseases that require a completely different approach to treatment can be hidden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pityriasis rosea is often difficult to distinguish from other skin problems. Dermatologist Alexander Chizhov will answer the most popular questions about this disease.

How can I tell if rosacea is going away?

– As soon as fresh rashes cease to appear, this means that the disease has begun to pass.

Is it possible to cauterize with iodine pink lichen in humans?

– Better not – it will not speed up the recovery. On the contrary, irritation of the rashes often leads to an increase in their size and number.

Will traditional medicine help with pink lichen?

– If you look at articles about folk methods for treating pink lichen, you won’t see anything there! Lotions with vinegar, rubbing newspaper ashes into rashes, birch tar with butter, cabbage leaf compresses with kefir …

And the only thing I would like to say about this is that treatment with modern drugs is faster, more effective and often cheaper than traditional medicine. In addition, the use of any means that have not passed clinical trials can be hazardous to health.

Photo: market.yandex.ru, KP

Sources :

1. I.V. Tarasova. Rashes in allergic and non-allergic diseases // Allergology and Immunology in Pediatrics. 2019. Volume 56. No. 1. pp. 10-18 https://cyberleninka.ru/article/n/sypi-pri-allergicheskih-i-neallergicheskih-boleznyah-algoritm-differentsialnoy-diagnostiki/viewer
2. Grebenyuk V.N., Kochetkov M.A. , Zatorskaya N.F., Basse F.B., Chudakova T.Yu., Bobrov M.A. Pink deprive Gibert in an unusual aspect. Clinical dermatology and venereology. 2020. Volume 19. No. 5. C. 758762
   https://www.mediasphera.ru/issues/klinicheskaya-dermatologiya-i-venerologiya/2020/5/1199728492020051758
3. Pityriasis rosea Zhibera. Clinical guidelines. Russian Society of Dermatovenerologists and Cosmetologists. 2020. https://cnikvi.ru/docs/clinic_recs/klinicheskie-rekomendatsii-2019-2020/files/KR%20Pink%20lichen%202020.docx
4. Dermatology. Consensus of dermatologists of the CIS countries on dermatitis and eczema. Extra issue // Supplement to Consilium Medicum. 2014. 18 p.
   https://elibrary.ru/item.asp?id=42315725

Rosacea ointments: effective and proven remedies

Treatment of rosacea with ointments – is it necessary? Together with an expert, we have prepared tips and recommendations for the prevention and treatment of pityriasis rosea.

Maria Grishchenko

Deputy Chief Physician for Medical Affairs of the “Maria Popova Clinic”

Description of Zhiber’s disease

Causes of pink lichen

Characteristic symptoms

Peculiarities of treatment of pityriasis rosea

Effective ointments for treatment of pityriasis rosea in a child

During pregnancy

Summary of treatment of pityriasis rosea with
ointment 90 132

Description of Zhiber’s disease

Zhiber’s disease is a disease that occurs against the background of hypothermia, after illnesses, a decrease in immunity, a maternal plaque develops. Against the background of a normal skin color, a spot appears, redness with peeling. a few days of maternal plaque, then around it all over the body or on a limited area of ​​​​the skin, small child rashes may appear. The disease is not contagious in any way, most often it does not bother at all, there is no itching, nothing. If there are complaints, then we prescribe antihistamine and external hormonal ointments. There is no seasonality for this disease. It has to do with human immunity. But it is worth noting that now cases of the disease have become more common. I think this is due to the modern lifestyle, frequent nervous breakdowns, stress, poor immunity.

Causes of pityriasis rosea

The most important thing is a weak immune system. After illness, hypothermia, stress and so on. But dermatologists always do an analysis for syphilis to rule it out. It is difficult to confuse Gibert’s disease, it is always classic. But if there are suspicions, for example, of a fungal infection, then we prescribe additional tests, scrapings.

Characteristic symptoms

The most important thing, as I said, is the presence of a maternal plaque on the skin, then a rash around it. Most often, in terms of complaints, it proceeds without any symptoms at all, but there may be itching. Especially after water procedures, rashes may intensify.

Peculiarities of lichen rosea treatment

First: limitation of water procedures. If there is itching, then these are any antihistamines and external use for 5-7 days with any hormonal ointment.

Effective ointments for treatment

In general, pink lichen clears up on its own in a few weeks – without any ointments. The main thing is not to irritate the skin. But there are some ointments that will help relieve itching and other symptoms. You can find a lot of recommendations on the Internet. Let’s try to figure out which of the ointments are really suitable.

Akriderm

I would not recommend this ointment. The fact is that there is a combined composition. Yes, there is a hormone for the treatment of Zhiber’s disease, but at the same time, there are also antibiotics in the composition. It is better to use purely hormonal ointments.

Aciclovir

This ointment is not at all the right place. Acquilovir is an antiviral drug. In this case, it will have no effect at all.

Gistan

This ointment can be used. The drug without unnecessary components. This ointment has an anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effect. Suitable for this disease. In principle, the price is also not so high.

Clotrimazole

Clotrimazole is not suitable for Gibert’s disease. This is an antifungal drug.

Lorinden

This drug can be used. It is also hormonal. Like other hormonal ointments for external use, it relieves swelling, itching, redness, and soothes the skin.

Oletetrin ointment

Firstly, this drug is now rarely used at all, and secondly: in our case, again, it is not suitable, because it is not a hormonal ointment, but an antibiotic.

Prednisolone ointment

The most suitable agent. A good hormonal ointment, cheap and cheerful, as they say. Proven reliable remedy for redness, inflammation, itching.

Salicylic ointment

Not recommended. This drug will dry the skin very much, which is absolutely not recommended for irritation. This ointment is more antibacterial, and with Zhiber’s disease, the skin dries anyway, it is not worth aggravating.

Sinalar

This drug can be used. It also relieves itching, redness, softens the skin. It can be used for most skin conditions.

Uniderm

Can be used. The composition is similar to the previous ointment, and the effect will be similar.

Flucinar

The drug is suitable for this disease. It is prescribed for diseases of the skin. Also hormonal ointment, anti-allergic. Relieves itching and redness.

Zinc ointment

Zinc ointment for Gibert’s disease should not be used because of the strong effect of drying the skin. This can only make the situation worse.

Important to understand!

Any hormonal drug should be used only as prescribed by a doctor. You have to be extremely careful with them. Due to prolonged use, skin atrophy can be caused. Hormone is not as simple as we would like. In fact, any drugs other than vitamins should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. Any self-medication can only aggravate the situation.

Ointments for rosacea in a child

In fact, the same ointments are suitable for the treatment of Gibert’s disease for children as for the treatment of an adult. But be sure to consider at what age you can use the ointment. And for this you need, firstly, a doctor’s appointment, and secondly, reading the instructions.

During pregnancy

During pregnancy, ointments can be used, but again very carefully.