Changes in the skin are some of the most common symptoms that are experienced by lupus patients. There are many medical treatments available to treat the skin changes caused by the condition. However, there are also several lifestyle tips for lupus patients that help them protect the skin and cover-up the symptoms of the disease. Here are some of these lifestyle tips:

1. Prevent sun damage
The ultraviolet rays of the sun can cause many skin-related problems such as butterfly-shaped rashes on the cheeks and the nose in lupus patients. The UV rays of the sun can also cause patches of raised sores and can aggravate the condition overall. To prevent all kinds of skin damage caused by UVA and UVB rays, the following tips can come in handy.

2. Use sunscreen

Even if you are stepping out for a short while, it is important that you wear sunscreen. A broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is recommended for lupus patients. To ensure protection against both types of UV rays, pick the sunscreen that contains chemical blockers or physical blockers. Keep applying sunscreen every 80 minutes and reduce the intervals between reapplications if you are sweaty or have been swimming. Women suffering from lupus can wear sunscreen under their makeup and reapply it along with tinted zinc oxide powder.

3. Do not step out during peak sun hours

To prevent skin damage, lupus patients should completely avoid stepping out in the sun during peak sun hours. The sunlight is often the strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. If you wish to exercise outdoors, do it during the early morning or late evening hours.

4. Keep your skin covered

For lupus patients, it is important to keep their skin covered whenever they are out in the sun. Wearing long-sleeve shirts to cover the arms and long pants to cover the legs is advised. Sunglasses with UV filters and broad hats should also be used.

5. Be extra cautious if you are on medication

ome medications can increase skin sensitivity to the sun. If you are on antibiotics, blood pressure medicines, or anti-inflammatory drugs, you must take some extra preventive measures to avoid exposure to sunlight.

6. Care for hair and scalp
One of the most common symptoms of lupus is hair loss. However, there are certain lifestyle tips for lupus patients to take care of these symptoms and to keep looking their best.

7. Avoid any pressure on the hair

Do not put any pressure on the hair. You can do this by avoiding the use of a curler or any chemical treatments like coloring or straightening. Use baby shampoo to wash the hair and leave-in conditioners that contain sun-block.

8. Get a new hairstyle

Bald patches can be a common problem in lupus patients. In such cases, the patients can consult a stylist and get the patches covered with the help of a new hairstyle.