Treating PR

I had no idea what PR was before getting it. I had developed what I assumed was an eczema patch on my chest near the end of February. I started to use hydrocortisone cream on it but it wouldn’t get better. I shrugged it off as eczema and didn’t think much of since it wasn’t causing me any problems, although I thought it was strange how it was lingering.

On March 19th, while I was in the shower I noticed my stomach had broke out in hundreds of red spots. I initially thought it was an allergic reaction, so I took some Benadryl and prayed it would be gone in the morning. The next day, it was worse and I really started to freak out. It covered my entire stomach and back, with few spots on my chest and the very tops of my thighs. I must have researched for hours until I learned about PR and noticed every symptom fit. Reading through the threads and seeing that a doctor can do next to nothing, I compiled a list of every remedy here on Reddit and tested some out. This is what worked for me:

  • I started using classic Head and Shoulder shampoo as a body wash all over my body. I would let it sit for about 3-5 minutes before washing off.
  • Showered with ONLY cold or lukewarm water
  • Pat dry, and did not use any lotion (yes, my skin was very dry but it never got itchy!)
  • Supplements! I took 3000mg of L-Lysine per day along with 25mg of Zinc and 1000mg of Vitamin C (every single day!!) I’m still actively taking the L Lysine until the bottle is done.
  • Only drank water and ate clean

I honestly think the L-Lysine + Head and Shoulders combo was a GAME CHANGER for me. As soon as I started both, my PR rapidly faded. It’s been about 20 days since my spots first appeared, and I have not gotten any new ones. My herald patch has disappeared completely, and the spots on my body have faded dramatically, although still noticeable.

I’m hoping this is my first and last time with PR! I’m very thankful I got a mild case, and even more thankful to everyone that shared their tips and remedies! I hope this helps someone dealing with this frustrating condition 🫶 it does get better!!!