The White House explains what is causing large scabbing rash on Trump's neck

Donald Trump's personal physician has been forced to issue a statement after photos emerged showing a large scabbing rash appearing on the US president's neck.

People began speculating over the 79-year-old's health after the rash became visible during the Medal of Honor Ceremony yesterday (2 March).

This isn't the first time Trump's health has been the subject of much speculation in recent months, of course, particularly after he was spotted with makeup on his hand in February, which was believed to be an attempt to cover bruises.

Donald Trump's rash explained

According to his doctor, Sean Barbabella, the rash seen yesterday was caused by a cream Trump has been using as a 'preventative skin treatment'.

In a statement, the medical professional said: "President Trump is using a very common cream on the right side of his neck, which is a preventative skin treatment.

"The President is using the treatment for one week, and the redness is expected to last for a few weeks."

Donald Trump has sparked speculation after appearing in public with a rash on his neck (SAUL LOEB / AFP via Getty Images)

However, Dr Barbabella didn't give any indication as to what the cream could be for or why the president needs the treatment.

Trump's consistent bruising

He has since appeared in public with bruises on his hands on a number of different occasions, which has been attributed to him taking a higher daily dose of aspirin than advised, which makes him prone to bruising.

During an interview with the Wall Street Journal in January, he said: "They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don’t want thick blood pouring through my heart.

"I want nice, thin blood pouring through my heart. Does that make sense?"

Trump has been pictured several times with bruising on his hand, including here in January of this year (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

However, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt previously said Trump had bruises on his hand 'because he’s constantly working and shaking hands all day every day.'

Elsewhere, concerns have been raised after Trump appeared drowsy during a cabinet meeting in December and then at a meeting to promote lower costs of GLP-1 weight loss medications.

The White House's statement on Trump's health

In July 2025, the White House stated after Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency after he noticed swelling in his legs.

Speculation has been growing over Trump's health (Kenny Holston-Pool/Getty Images)

"The president underwent a comprehensive examination, including diagnostic vascular studies," officials said at the time.

"Bilateral lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasounds were performed and revealed chronic venous insufficiency, a benign and common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 70."

In the past, the president has expressed his frustration with the speculation over his health and admits he regrets undergoing a cardiovascular and abdominal advanced imaging scan last year as it 'gave them a little ammunition.'