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Butterfly-shaped rash on the face

Also called: Malar rash, lupus rash

A butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose can be a sign of lupus, especially with joint pain and tiredness. Rosacea can look similar.

Common causesLupus, rosacea
Usually serious?Can be
Get checked ifWith joint pain or fatigue
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

Lupus is an autoimmune disease.

Sun often triggers the rash.

When to get medical care

Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayRash with fever or chest pain.
See a doctor soonButterfly rash with other symptoms.

Causes

Causes include lupus and rosacea.

OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause butterfly-shaped rash on the face. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • LupusSee a doctor if it doesn't get better

    An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues.

What you can do at home

  • Use sunscreen.

Medicines

Depends on cause.

At the doctor

Blood tests help.

Questions you may be asked

  • Symptoms

The exam

A skin exam.

Tests

  • ANA test

Prevention

Protect skin.

  • Sunscreen

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.