Doctor Reveals Cause of a 'Scabby Patch' on Trump's Neck

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - United States President Donald Trump has again drawn scrutiny after a reddened area on the right side of his neck, resembling a scabby patch, became visible above his shirt collar and stopped just below the ear during a Medal of Honour ceremony.

In response to public speculation, Trump’s personal physician, Dr. Sean Barbabella, said the condition was not due to a serious illness. He said the redness arose from using a skin-care cream.

‘The President uses a very common cream on the right side of his neck, which is preventive skin-care treatment,’ Barbabella said in a statement on Monday, 2 March 2026, as quoted by CNN International.

‘The President has been using this treatment for a week, and the redness is expected to last for several weeks,’ he added.

However, Barbabella did not specify the medical reasons for why Trump requires the skincare treatment. As of this report, the White House has not provided further explanation regarding the President’s condition.

Trump, who was sworn in again at the age of 79 and is the oldest US president to take the oath, had previously been seen with bruising on the backs of both hands on several occasions. The condition had sparked questions about his health.

Trump explained that the bruising was caused by his habit of frequent handshakes and daily aspirin use at doses higher than recommended, which makes him more prone to bruising.

Last year, Trump underwent two medical examinations at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, including a cardiovascular assessment. Barbabella has consistently stated that Trump’s condition remains in excellent overall health.

In notes released in December, Barbabella stated that Trump ‘remains in very good overall health.’