Treatment

Granuloma annulare can clear on its own over time. Treatment might help clear the skin faster than if left untreated, but recurrence is common. The lesions that return after treatment tend to appear at the same spots, and 80% of those usually clear within two years.

Untreated, the lesions might last a few weeks or decades.

Treatment options include:

• Corticosteroid creams or ointments. Prescription-strength products may help improve the appearance of the bumps and help them disappear faster. Your doctor may direct you to cover the cream with bandages or an adhesive patch, to increase the effectiveness of this treatment.
• Corticosteroid injections. If the skin lesions aren't clearing up with topical treatment, your doctor may suggest a corticosteroid injection. Repeat injections may be needed every 6 to 8 weeks until the condition clears up.
• Freezing. Applying liquid nitrogen to the affected area may help remove the lesions.
• Light therapy. Exposing the lesions to certain types of light, including lasers, is sometimes helpful.
• Oral medications. When the lesions are widespread, your doctor might prescribe drugs taken by mouth, such as antibiotics, antimalarials or drugs used to prevent immune system reactions.