Corticosteroid creams, such as dexamethasone acetate or betamethasone valerate, are topical medications used on the skin to treat conditions like dermatitis, eczema, itching, redness, and skin allergies. These creams have strong anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce skin inflammation by mimicking corticosteroid hormones naturally produced by the adrenal glands.
In addition to reducing inflammation, corticosteroid creams also help suppress the immune response, slow down skin cell turnover, and decrease blood vessel dilation. Because of these effects, they can be useful for treating allergic reactions or skin redness.
The specific indications for each corticosteroid cream may vary depending on the active ingredient in the formula. Therefore, these creams should only be used under medical supervision. In children, corticosteroid creams should be used only with guidance from a pediatrician.
Main uses
Corticosteroid creams are commonly prescribed to treat skin inflammation caused by:
-
Allergic or atopic dermatitis
-
Eczema
-
Heat rash
-
Impetigo
-
Insect bites
-
Psoriasis
-
Discoid lupus erythematosus
Some corticosteroid creams may also be recommended for sunburn or outer ear inflammation (otitis externa), as long as there is no eardrum perforation. In children, corticosteroid creams may also be used for phimosis.
The use of corticosteroid creams should be guided by a dermatologist, general practitioner, or pediatrician and will depend on the specific condition being treated.
Corticosteroid cream for childhood phimosis
In some cases, corticosteroid creams like betamethasone may be prescribed by a pediatrician to treat phimosis in children. These creams help thin the skin, making it easier to retract the foreskin and clean the penis properly.
The use of corticosteroid creams for phimosis in children should always follow the pediatrician’s instructions regarding the type of cream, how to apply it, and the duration of treatment.
How to use
Corticosteroid creams should be applied directly to the skin at the times prescribed by the doctor. It’s recommended to wash the hands and affected area with mild soap and water, then dry the area completely before applying the cream. Apply a small amount of cream to cover the affected skin and gently massage it in to help absorption.
The frequency and duration of use can vary depending on the type of cream prescribed for adults. Common examples include:
-
Clobetasol propionate: apply to the affected skin 1 to 2 times daily for a maximum of 4 weeks
-
Desonide: apply to the affected area 1 to 3 times daily until symptoms improve
-
Hydrocortisone acetate: apply to the affected area 2 to 3 times daily until symptoms improve
-
Dexamethasone acetate: apply to the affected skin 2 to 3 times daily until symptoms improve
-
Betamethasone valerate: apply to the affected area 1 to 2 times daily for a maximum of 4 weeks
Hands should be washed after applying the cream unless the treatment is for the hands themselves.
It’s also important not to cover the treated skin area with dressings or bandages unless instructed by a doctor, as this can increase the cream's absorption and lead to side effects.
Possible side effects
Common side effects of corticosteroid creams may include dry skin, itching, redness, burning or stinging sensation, blistering, skin discoloration, bruising, or crust formation around hair follicles.
In some cases, corticosteroid creams can be absorbed into the bloodstream and cause systemic side effects. These should be reported to a doctor and may include blurred vision, eye pain, increased thirst or urination, dry mouth, weight gain, facial swelling, muscle weakness, depression, anxiety, or irritability.
Who should not use
Corticosteroid creams should not be used in children under 1 year of age or in people who are allergic to corticosteroids such as betamethasone, hydrocortisone, clobetasol, desonide, or dexamethasone.
These creams are also not recommended in the following situations:
-
Skin tuberculosis
-
Fungal infections
-
Herpes simplex
-
Chickenpox
-
Eardrum perforation
-
Rosacea
-
Acne vulgaris
-
Open wounds
-
Itching without inflammation
-
Itching in the anal or genital area
-
Perioral dermatitis
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should only use corticosteroid creams if prescribed by a doctor, as there is not enough evidence to confirm they are safe in these situations.
Corticosteroid creams should also not be used in the eyes. In cases involving the eyes, an ophthalmologist should be consulted to recommend appropriate treatment.