Side effects of topical steroids...

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Side effects of topical steroids can be both internal and local.

Internal side effects

If more than 50g of clobetasol propionate, or 500g of hydrocortisone is used per week, sufficient steroid may be absorbed through the skin to result in internal side effects.

There are two main groups of signs and symptoms:

Cushing's syndrome. 

Fluid retention, raised blood pressure, diabetes, change in body shape, fragile blood vessels, stretch marks, susceptibility to infections etc. 

Adrenal Gland Suppression. 

Topical steroids can suppress the production of natural steroids, which are essential for healthy body function. Stopping the steroids suddenly may then result in illness because the adrenal gland is not able to function normally. 


Local side effects of topical steroids

Skin thinning (atrophy).

Easy bruising and tearing of the skin. 

Stretch marks (striae). 

Perioral dermatitis (rash around the mouth). 

Susceptibility to skin infections. 

Enlarged and fragile blood vessels (telangiectasia). 

Allergy to the topical steroid cream (contact allergic dermatitis). 

The risk of these side effects depends on the strength of the steroid, the length of application, the site treated, and the nature of the skin problem. If you use a potent steroid cream on your face you may develop the side effects within just a few weeks. The hands in comparison are more resistant.

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