April 8, 2025

Pityriasis rosea is a skin condition that causes small discoloured patches. These patches are itchy and often resolve without any medical treatment. The condition is also commonly called “Christmas Tree Rash.” Scientists aren’t sure of the exact cause of this condition; however, it might be triggered by a viral infection, particularly one caused by certain strains of the herpes virus.

Although most people haven’t heard of pityriasis rosea, it is a common condition affecting children and young adults. Nevertheless, it isn’t contagious and doesn’t recur once you’re cured. Let’s explore more about this condition, its symptoms, and its causes to help you diagnose and treat it accordingly.

Pityriasis Rosea Symptoms

Pityriasis rosea can occur differently in each person. Typically, it begins with a large oval and slightly scaly patch, also known as the herald patch, which appears on the face, abdomen, or back. Sometimes, people experience symptoms such as headache, sore throat, fever, stuffy nose, or nausea before the patch appears.

Roughly a week or two later, smaller discoloured patches appear around the herald patch in groups. These patches range from 1 – 2 cm in size and are called daughter patches. In most cases, they feel itchy, especially when they are exposed to heat or if you sweat. The texture and colour of the patches vary depending on the skin tones. Paler skin tones typically have pink-coloured and slightly raised patches, whereas richer skin tones showcase purple or dark brown and slightly raised and scaly patches.

Pityriasis rosea doesn’t cause pain; however, if you scratch aggressively, you may cause skin breakage, which can lead to bleeding and other infections.

Pityriasis Rosea Causes

While the exact cause is still unknown, here are some potential pityriasis rosea causes implicated in the condition’s development.

Viral Infections: Dermatologists have found herpesviruses in the patches, saliva and blood of people infected with pityriasis rosea. Therefore, it is believed that the condition can be caused by contracting a viral infection, especially by specific strains of the human herpes virus. Unlike the herpes virus that causes cold sores, the ones found in pityriasis rosea do not cause such reactions.

Weak Immune System: These viruses often do not cause any harm, as the body’s immune system keeps them under control. However, if you have a weak immune system or had an illness recently that affected your immunity; it can cause the virus to enter and spread throughout the body. This gives the virus a freeway to reproduce and develop patches over your skin, causing itchiness and discomfort. 

Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Although unconfirmed, sources suggest that high stress and specific foods, such as spicy foods, can trigger or worsen the skin condition. 

Seasonal and Environmental Triggers: Depending on the climate, viral infections can arise, giving rise to higher chances of contracting pityriasis rosea. Furthermore, this condition typically occurs in the spring and fall seasons. Cold weather also impacts the immune system, making it susceptible to infections. 

Best Treatments for Pityriasis Rosea

As stated earlier, pityriasis rosea typically gets better on its own; however, you can seek a dermatologist for treatments to ease the symptoms. Below are some common pityriasis rosea treatment options provided by doctors. 

Topical Treatments

• Corticosteroid cream: Dermatologists often recommend this ointment for direct application to the skin. It reduces the itching sensation and provides relief. However, the cream will not make the rash disappear.
• Calamine lotion: It is a common over-the-counter medication that helps relieve itching and provides a soothing effect on the skin.
• Antihistamines: These allergy medications are available in the form of lotion and tablets and help reduce itching.
• Moisturizers: Some doctors also recommend using gentle moisturizers to prevent skin dryness and reduce discomfort. 

Antiviral Medications

As research suggests, one of the potential pityriasis rosea causes could be viral infections; therefore, doctors might prescribe antiviral medications such as acyclovir, Zovirax, etc. The effectiveness of these medicines in treating rashes is still debatable. Nevertheless, they might help the rash go away sooner in some cases.

Phototherapy

It is a light treatment that uses ultraviolet light rays to fasten the healing process. However, UVB light often leaves a lasting mark on the skin (hyperpigmentation), especially on darker skin tones. Therefore, it is ideal to consult your health provider before undergoing phototherapy.

Natural Remedies and Home Care

While conventional pityriasis rosea treatments help reduce symptoms, here are some natural remedies to help you feel more comfortable.

Oatmeal Baths

Lukewarm baths are generally highly soothing for the skin. Research shows that oats contain avenanthramides, which have natural anti-itch and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, taking oatmeal baths is highly effective in relieving skin irritations and discomfort.

Avoid Excess Heat

Heat can worsen the rash and lead to extreme dryness and irritation. To protect your rashes from sun exposure, wear loose-fitting clothes and apply sunscreen while outdoors.

Coconut Oil or Tea Tree Oil

Keeping your skin moisturized is essential to preventing itching and dryness. The fatty acids present in coconut oil make it a natural moisturizer. Tea tree oil, too, has anti-inflammatory properties that discourage inflammation, itchiness, and dryness.

Cool Compresses

Cool compresses help numb the skin, reducing itching and inflammation. Apply cold compresses to the patches for 10-15 minutes and then wash them off with lukewarm water. 

Aloe Vera Gel

Like most skin conditions, moisturizing helps keep the skin hydrated and encourages quick healing.

Conclusion

While there isn’t any way through which pityriasis rosea can be prevented, it isn’t something to worry about and will go away on its own. However, if the rashes continue to cause irritation and discomfort, the above-mentioned remedies and treatments can help you reduce distress and feel more comfortable. Seek help when needed by visiting a doctor or dialling medical helpline numbers to seek medical advice through Zenplus. Above all, have patience with the condition, as it is only a matter of time before the rashes fade and go away on their own.

FAQs

1. What is pityriasis rosea?

It is a common skin condition that causes discoloured patches on the skin.

2. What causes pityriasis rosea?

While the exact cause of this condition is still unknown, scientists have linked it to viral infections, particularly specific strains of human herpes virus.

3. Is pityriasis rosea contagious?

No, pityriasis rosea isn’t contagious.