Topical corticosteroids
Who can use topical corticosteroids
Mostadults and childrencan use topicalcorticosteroids safely, but there are situations when they aren't recommended.
They shouldn't be used if:
- you have infected skin unless advised by a doctor
- you have certain skin conditions including rosacea , acne and skin ulcers (open sores)
Mosttopical corticosteroids are considered safe to useduring pregnancy orbreastfeeding.However, you should wash offany steroid cream applied to your breasts before feeding your baby.
However, verypotent topical corticosteroids aren't usually prescribed for pregnant or breastfeeding women,orfor very young children. Exceptions are sometimes made under the supervision of a dermatologist (skin care specialist).
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Topical corticosteroids (steroids) are medications which are applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation and irritation
Conditions treated with topical corticosteroids
Conditions widely treated with topical corticosteroids include: eczema such as atopic eczema seborrhoeic dermatitiswhich causessymptoms such as dandruff and scaly patches on the skin psoriasis
Who can use topical corticosteroids
Mostadults and childrencan use topicalcorticosteroids safely, but there are situations when they aren't recommended. They shouldn't be used if: you have infected skin unless advised by a doctor yo
How to use topical corticosteroids
Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, follow the directions on the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication. This will give details of how much to apply and how often. Most p
Side effects of topical corticosteroids
The most common side effect of topical corticosteroids is aburning or stinging sensation when the medication is applied. However, thisusually improves as your skin gets used to the treatment. Less co
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