Creams containing corticosteroids: what they are used for and when to use them

Creams containing corticosteroids (such as dexamethasone or betamethasone) are topical medications, that is, medications that are applied to the skin, and are indicated for conditions of dermatitis, eczema, and itchy skin.

Corticosteroids have powerful anti-inflammatory effects because they mimic the body’s naturally produced corticosteroid hormones through the adrenal glands. In addition, they reduce immune system response, cell turnover, and blood vessel dilation, so they may also be used in cases of allergies or red skin. Learn how to identify skin allergies.

It is important to emphasize that corticosteroid-containing creams may have different indications, depending on the type of corticosteroid in their composition, which is why they should only be used under medical guidance. In addition, the use of corticosteroid creams in children should only be done under the supervision of a pediatrician.

what are they used for

Creams containing corticosteroids are suitable for skin inflammation caused by:

• allergic dermatitis;
• Atopic dermatitis;
• eczema;
• prickly heat;
• impetigo;
• insect bites;
• psoriasis;
• Discoid lupus erythematosus;
• Phimosis in children.

Additionally, in the case of sunburn or ear inflammation (such as otitis externa), some corticosteroid ointments may be used as long as the eardrum is not perforated.

Foreskin cream containing corticosteroids

Creams containing corticosteroids (such as betamethasone) are also useful in cases of phimosis in infants, as it works by softening the foreskin tissue and thinning the skin, thereby promoting movement and cleansing of the penis.

In these cases, the cream must be prescribed by a pediatrician or pediatric surgeon, and guidelines must be followed regarding how much to put in and how long to use it. Learn about treatments for phimosis.

How to use corticosteroid cream

Creams containing corticosteroids should be applied to the skin for the time and amount prescribed by your doctor. It is recommended to wash your hands and the area to be treated with water and mild soap and dry them thoroughly before applying the cream. Next, a sufficient amount of ointment should be applied to cover the affected area and gently massaged into the skin to promote absorption.

The method of using corticosteroid cream in adults depends on the type of cream used, as follows:

• Clobetasol: Apply to affected skin 1 to 2 times daily for up to 4 weeks;
• Desonida: It is recommended to apply the ointment to the affected skin 1 to 3 times daily until symptoms improve;
• Hydrocortisone: Apply to affected skin 2 to 3 times daily until symptoms improve;
• Dexamethasone: Apply to affected skin 2 to 3 times daily until symptoms improve;
• Betamethasone: Apply to affected skin 1 to 2 times daily for up to 4 weeks.

It is important to wash your hands after using corticosteroid cream, unless the cream is used to treat skin in that area of ​​the body.

Also, the area of ​​skin being treated should not be covered unless directed by your doctor, as covering the skin may increase absorption of the ointment and cause side effects.

possible side effects

Some of the most common side effects that may occur with the use of corticosteroid creams are dry skin, itching, redness, burning sensation, tingling or blistering of treated skin, changes in skin color, bruising or scabbing around the hair.

In addition, corticosteroid creams can be absorbed through the skin and cause systemic side effects that should be reported to your doctor, including blurred vision, eye pain, thirst or need to urinate, dry mouth, weight gain, facial swelling, muscle weakness, depression, anxiety, or irritability .

Contraindications

Creams containing corticosteroids should not be used by children under 1 year of age or by people who are allergic to corticosteroids (such as betamethasone, hydrocortisone, clobetasol, desonide, dexamethasone, or betamethasone).

These ointments should also not be used if:

• Skin tuberculosis;
• fungal diseases;
• Herpes simplex;
• chicken pox;
• perforated eardrum;
• Skin problems such as rosacea, acne vulgaris, skin wounds, itchy skin without inflammation;
• Itching in the anal or genital area;
• Oral dermatitis.

Additionally, corticosteroid ointments should only be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women under the supervision of their primary care physician, as there are no studies showing that corticosteroid ointments are safe to use in these situations.

Corticosteroid ointments should also not be used in the eyes, and an ophthalmologist should be consulted who will recommend a specific ointment for use on the eyes.