Patient Perspectives: Topical steroids

Topical steroids are used to treat many skin conditions. These medicines calm inflammation in the skin.

Topical steroids come in different strengths, from mild to strong. They also come in many forms: creams, ointments, lotions, solutions, gels, and oils. Certain strengths and forms are best for certain areas of the body. Your dermatologist will help your child find the right combination.

How Do I Apply Topical Steroids to My Child’s Skin?

1. Apply to the affected area. Apply a thin layer of the medicine. Only apply the medication to areas where your child’s skin needs the treatment. » For example, if your child has a rash, apply the medication to the areas of rash.
   • Try to avoid the areas of normal, healthy skin.
2. Wash your hands. Wash your hands to remove any leftover medicine.
3. Stick to the schedule. Use the medicine as your doctor prescribed. This may be once or twice daily. Continue until you reach the goal you and your doctor set.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Topical Steroids?

Side effects from topical steroids are uncommon when used as recommended. Problems can occur if too much medicine is used or if they are used for too long. Possible side effects include:

• SKIN THINNING
  Topical steroids can cause skin thinning if they are used on the same area for a long time without any breaks. You might see the blood vessels under the skin. In severe cases, if the medication is continued, stretch marks may form.
• ACNE
  Topical steroids can trigger or worsen acne. If possible, avoid applying the steroids on areas with active acne.
• STINGING
  Some children may feel stinging or burning for a few seconds after using the medicine.

Are Topical Steroids Absorbed Into the Body?

Topical steroids work directly in the skin to calm inflammation. This helps them work quickly with minimal side effects, compared to treatments taken by mouth.

Most of the medicine stays within the skin. If very strong steroids are used too much or for too long, a small amount of the medicine may get into the blood.

I Am Worried About Applying Topical Steroids to My Child’s Skin. What Can I Do?

Tell your doctor about your concerns. Together, you can talk through the risks and benefits of topical steroid treatment. Regular checkups with your doctor can also help. Your doctor will examine your child’s skin, watching carefully for side effects.

My Child’s Skin Worsens After Stopping a Topical Steroid. Is the Topical Steroid Not Working?

Topical steroids work by calming inflammation in the skin. They tend to work for active areas, but they cannot prevent new flare-ups. If your child still has a skin disease, new spots are expected to continue to come and go. Make sure you are following all of your doctor’s instructions. This might include a skin care routine to prevent new spots. Also, be careful not to stop the medicine too quickly. Sometimes a spot may be better but not gone. If you stop the medication too soon, the spot may quickly return. Again, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to make sure you are using the treatment correctly.

Many families worry about side effects from topical steroids. Here are some ways to make sure you are using them safely: