The type of lichen planus varies by the type and location of the lesions. Many types may occur together. Types of lichen planus include:

• Erosive. Degenerative involvement of the mucous membranes, particularly the vulva, vagina and oral mucosa. Some forms may be very painful and severe.
  
  
• Guttate. Small, discrete, pinpoint lesions. These rarely become chronic (ongoing).
  
  
• Annular. Ring-like lesions with lighter centers. These almost never occur alone and are found most often in the mouth and on the male genitals.
  
  
• Hypertrophic. Large, thick, scaly patches, most often located on the front of the leg. These are usually chronic and may cause scarring.
  
  
• Atrophic. A few small, possibly scaling lesions. They often form following the resolution of annular or hypertrophic lesions.
  
  
• Bullous. Blisters that form within the papules, most often on the lower limbs or in the mouth. These tend to form from pre-existing lesions.
  
  
• Linear. Isolated lines of small lesions.
  
  
• Lichen planopilaris. Scalp involvement. Erythema (redness), irritation and hair loss are generally the first symptoms. Thick, scaly patches form on the scalp and, if untreated, may lead to scarring hair loss that is often permanent.