![]() Many people with eczema require a course of topical steroids every now and then to clear a flare-up. ![]() In some cases, a longer course is needed. In many cases, a course of treatment for 7-14 days is enough to clear a flare-up of eczema. You should use topical steroids until the flare-up has completely gone and then stop using them. A very strong topical steroid is often needed for eczema on the palms and soles of the feet of adults because these areas have thick skin. For example, a mild steroid for the face and a moderately strong steroid for eczema on the thicker skin of the arms or legs. Sometimes two or more preparations of different strengths are used at the same time. For severe flare-ups a very strong topical steroid may be prescribed from the outset. If there is no improvement after 3-7 days, a stronger topical steroid is usually then prescribed. So, for example, hydrocortisone 1% is often used, especially when treating children. It is common practice to use the lowest-strength topical steroid which clears the flare-up. The aim of treatment is to clear the flare-up and then to stop the steroid treatment. Lotions (which are like thin creams) may be useful to treat areas where there is increased hair such as the scalp.ĭr Sarah Jarvis MBE What are topical steroids used for?Īs a rule, a course of topical steroid is used when one or more patches of eczema flare up.Ointments (which are clear, rather than white) are usually best to treat affected areas of skin which are dry or thickened.Steroid creams (which are usually white) are usually best to treat moist or weeping areas of skin.The greater the strength (potency) of topical steroids, the more effect it has on reducing inflammation but the greater the risk of side-effects with continued use. (Potent just means 'strong', but doctors tend to use the word potent.) There are various brands and types in each category.įor example, hydrocortisone cream 1% is a commonly used steroid cream and is classed as a mild topical steroid. However, they are generally grouped into four categories depending on their strength - mild, moderately potent, potent and very potent. There are many brands and types of topical steroid. What types of topical steroids are there?
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