MEDICAL

Pityriasis rosea is a benign skin rash that presents first with a "herald patch" followed in 1-2 weeks by a generalized body rash. People who have fair to olive-colored skin will see a pink or rose-colored herald patch. In people who have dark skin, the patch varies from violet to dark gray. The body rash is typically seen on the chest, abdomen, back, arms and legs but may develop on the neck, face, and elsewhere on the skin. Patches can even develop inside the mouth but rarely appear on the face, scalp, palms, or soles. 

The skin can itch, which tends to worsen when the skin gets warm, such as when a person works out or takes a hot shower. Using lukewarm water for bathing and trying not to get overheated helps minimize discomfort.  While pityriasis rosea usually resolves on its own without long-term effects, the rash can continue for six to eight weeks but occasionally lasts longer than eight weeks before it disappears.