A malar rash of lupus is red or purplish and mildly scaly.

It has the characteristic shape of a butterfly, and involves the bridge of the nose.

Notably, the rash spares the nasolabial folds of the face, which contributes to its characteristic appearance.

The rash can be transient or progressive with involvement of other parts of the facial skin.

[3] Where lupus is suspected, further medical tests and a detailed history and examination are necessary to differentiate it from other conditions.