7 Breakthrough Treatments for Lichen Planus in 2025 – What Dermatologists Are Using Now
If you’ve been battling itchy, inflamed patches from lichen planus, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not out of options. In 2025, dermatologists are using some of the most cutting-edge therapies ever seen to finally bring relief to this frustrating and often misunderstood skin condition.
Whether you've been dealing with chronic flare-ups or you’re newly diagnosed, these seven breakthrough treatments could change everything.
1. Topical JAK Inhibitors: The New Gold Standard
For decades, steroid creams were the go-to—but in 2025, topical JAK inhibitors like ruxolitinib are quickly becoming the first-line treatment. Why? They work at the cellular level to block the inflammatory signals that trigger lichen planus. Results often appear in weeks, not months.
2. Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Originally used for addiction treatment, LDN is now being praised for its anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects. Many patients with autoimmune skin disorders, including lichen planus, are reporting reduced itching and faster healing with daily low doses.
3. Light-Based Therapies (Photobiomodulation)
Not to be confused with traditional UV light therapy, photobiomodulation uses LED wavelengths that penetrate the skin and calm inflammation without burning or side effects. It’s non-invasive, pain-free, and often done right in a dermatologist’s office.
4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
PRP isn’t just for hair growth anymore. In 2025, more dermatologists are injecting platelet-rich plasma directly into lesions to accelerate skin healing and reduce pigmentation left behind by lichen planus. The results? Promising and fast.
5. Biologic Medications
Biologics like dupilumab are now being explored off-label for lichen planus, especially in patients with overlapping eczema or other autoimmune conditions. These injectable meds go deeper than topicals, targeting the root cause of immune dysfunction.
6. Customized Microbiome Therapy
Here’s a wild one: Some specialists now analyze your skin’s microbiome and tailor treatment based on what bacteria live on your skin. Early studies show that balancing skin flora can drastically reduce flares in chronic inflammatory skin conditions.
7. Peptide-Based Creams
Forget basic moisturizers. These next-gen peptide creams promote regeneration, reduce scarring, and improve the skin’s barrier. Patients report smoother, more even-toned skin within weeks.
