What are steroid cream side effects?
Steroid creams are often used to help with irritated, itchy, or red skin. They work fast to calm down conditions like eczema and rashes. But while they can help, they also come with some side effects. From mild burning to changes in skin color and even extra hair growth, it’s important to know what to expect when using these creams. Understanding the possible effects can help you make the right choice for your skin.
What is steroid cream?
Steroid cream is a type of medicine that you apply to your skin to reduce redness, swelling, and irritation. It helps calm down skin conditions like eczema or rashes by lowering inflammation. Steroid creams come in different forms, such as creams, lotions, or gels, and are used to treat various skin issues.
Why people use steroid creams?
People use steroid creams to help relieve itchy, red, or swollen skin. These creams work fast to calm irritation caused by conditions like eczema, rashes, or allergies. By reducing inflammation, they make the skin feel better and help it heal faster.
Side effects
Burning and skin irritation
Steroid creams, like hydrocortisone, can sometimes cause a mild burning or irritation on the skin when applied. This is a common reaction and usually goes away after a few days. Sometimes, it’s caused by other ingredients in the cream, not the steroid itself. If the irritation gets worse or doesn’t stop, it’s best to tell your doctor. You might need to use less cream or switch to a different one that’s gentler on your skin. If the burning becomes severe, stop using it and contact your doctor immediately.
Itching
Steroid creams, like hydrocortisone, can sometimes cause itching, even though they are often used to treat it. This may happen if your skin reacts to an ingredient in the cream. If the cream causes mild itching or dry skin, using a separate moisturizer might help, but apply it at a different time than the steroid cream. If the itching gets worse after using the cream, it’s best to contact your doctor. They might suggest switching to another treatment.
Skin thinning
Steroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, can result in skin thinning, commonly known as atrophy. This happens when steroids impact skin cells, resulting in thinner, brighter, or wrinkled skin. Stronger steroid creams increase the risk of this, while hydrocortisone is a safer choice. Fortunately, this side effect is temporary, and your skin should return to normal once you stop using the cream. If you observe any changes in your skin while using steroid creams such as hydrocortisone, notify your healthcare professional. They may recommend a gentler product or less frequent use.
Skin color changing
Steroid creams can sometimes cause changes in skin color. This can make the skin lighter or darker in the areas where the cream is applied. These changes usually happen with long-term use or if the cream is used on sensitive areas. The color changes can fade over time once you stop using the cream, but it might take a while. If you notice your skin color changing, talk to your healthcare provider for advice on managing it.
Excessive hair growth
Steroid creams can result in excessive hair growth, known as hypertrichosis. While it is more common with oral steroids or injections, it can also occur with creams. Experts do not know why this happens, but the excess hair may last for months. If you confront unusual hair growth while using a steroid cream, consult your healthcare professional for advice.
Conclusion
To summarise, while steroid creams such as hydrocortisone can fast reduce redness, swelling, and irritation, they may also cause negative effects. Common adverse effects include burning, irritation, dry skin, and itching, which are typically minor and may resolve on their own. To avoid side effects, use hydrocortisone cream as advised. Use the smallest appropriate amount for the shortest possible its length. If you detect any major side effects, such as skin changes or odd hair growth, seek advise from your healthcare professional.
FAQs
Is steroid harmful to the skin?
The most common side effect of topical steroids is a burning or stinging feeling when you apply the cream. This sensation usually gets better as your skin adjusts to the treatment. However, less common side effects can include worsening or spreading of any existing skin infections.
Does skin recover after steroid cream?
After stopping steroid cream, it can take a few days to several months for your skin to improve. In some cases, it might even take years for a full recovery.
Can skin grow back after steroid use?
Skin thinning caused by steroid use may be permanent. However, if you stop using the steroid early enough, the damage might improve slightly.
How long is it safe to use steroid cream?
Topical steroids are typically used for 7 to 14 days. Sometimes, a shorter duration of 5 to 7 days is recommended. If you use a strong steroid for 7 days, your doctor may suggest switching to a lower strength for another week.