Pityriasis rosea is a relatively common skin condition that causes a temporary rash of raised, red scaly patches on the body.

It can affect anyone, but it’s more common in older children and young adults (aged 10 to 35).

It’s not known what causes pityriasis rosea. One theory is that the rash may be caused by a viral infection.

Pityriasis rosea isn’t contagious and can’t be spread to other people through physical contact.