Reproductive health
Medicines for Lichen sclerosus
A long-term inflammatory skin condition, usually affecting the genital and anal skin, causing itching, soreness and white patches — well controlled with strong topical steroid treatment.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Lichen sclerosus?
Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most often affects the skin around the genitals and anus, in both women and men (and occasionally elsewhere). It causes itching (which can be intense), soreness, and thin, white, crinkled or shiny patches of skin that may crack or bleed.
- How it is treated: The main treatment is a strong topical corticosteroid ointment, applied to the affected skin as directed, which controls the inflammation, relieves symptoms and reduces the risk of scarring.
- Self-care: Using an emollient (moisturiser) as a soap substitute, avoiding perfumed products and tight synthetic clothing, and gentle washing all reduce irritation.
- When to seek help: See a GP for persistent genital itching, soreness or white skin patches.
What it is
Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most often affects the skin around the genitals and anus, in both women and men (and occasionally elsewhere). It causes itching (which can be intense), soreness, and thin, white, crinkled or shiny patches of skin that may crack or bleed. Over time, untreated disease can cause scarring and changes to the anatomy, and there is a small increased risk of skin cancer in the affected area, so long-term follow-up is advised. The cause is not fully understood but is thought to be autoimmune. It is not infectious and cannot be caught or passed on.
How it is treated
The main treatment is a strong topical corticosteroid ointment, applied to the affected skin as directed, which controls the inflammation, relieves symptoms and reduces the risk of scarring. Treatment is used intensively at first, then as maintenance to keep the condition under control long term. Gentle skin care, avoiding soaps and irritants, and using emollients help. Regular review monitors for scarring and, rarely, skin changes needing attention. With good treatment, most people control their symptoms well.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Lichen sclerosus
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Using an emollient (moisturiser) as a soap substitute, avoiding perfumed products and tight synthetic clothing, and gentle washing all reduce irritation. Continuing maintenance treatment as advised keeps the condition controlled.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a GP for persistent genital itching, soreness or white skin patches. Report any new lump, ulcer or non-healing sore in the area, as the affected skin needs monitoring.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Lichen sclerosus: frequently asked questions
Is lichen sclerosus contagious?
No. It is not an infection and cannot be caught or passed on. It is thought to be an autoimmune skin condition.
Can lichen sclerosus be cured?
There is no cure, but it is usually well controlled with a strong topical steroid ointment and good skin care, with long-term follow-up to monitor the skin.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- British Association of Dermatologists — Lichen sclerosus
- NHS — Lichen sclerosus
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