Hello there,
Extremely good advice from Barbara. Just a little more if I may. No, not everyone with lupus has the malar/butterfly rash. Even rosacea, PLE and other conditions can sometimes be associated with the appearance of a "butterfly" type rash.
Some preparations that are used by patients can also cause the appearance of this type of rash. Unless these products are used under strict supervision then they can cause the skin to become thinner and then the tiny blood vessels near the top layer of skin become more visible and give off the appearance of such a rash. Extreme care should be taken with such products.
Another thing to look for is that a "true" malar rash does not go into the folds of the skin at the sides of the nose either. By this I mean where the outer parts of the nose and cheeks meet the upper lip. This is usually a sign that the rash might be something else.
My rash is present in varying degrees. When I am in a flare, it is very visible and defined in the shape. When things improve it is a pinky blush.
Hope this helps.
goldenwings
