Topical corticosteroids can be really effective for managing psoriasis symptoms, but they do come with some side effects worth knowing about. Here are the most common ones to watch for:
- Skin thinning
- Stretch marks
- Changes in skin color
- Easier bruising
- Dilated blood vessels near the skin's surface
- Burning Show Full Answer
Topical corticosteroids can be really effective for managing psoriasis symptoms, but they do come with some side effects worth knowing about. Here are the most common ones to watch for:
- Skin thinning
- Stretch marks
- Changes in skin color
- Easier bruising
- Dilated blood vessels near the skin's surface
- Burning, irritation, or dryness
- Acne or small bumps on the skin
- Shiny skin There are also some situations that need immediate attention. Contact your doctor right away if you notice:
- Signs of a skin infection (swelling, oozing, unusual discoloration)
- A severe rash
- Unusual tiredness or muscle weakness
- Changes in how fat is distributed on your body
- Depression or irritability A few extra things to keep in mind — powerful topical steroids can sometimes be absorbed into the bloodstream, which can cause wider body effects. Be especially cautious using steroids on sensitive areas like the face, as one MyPsoriasisTeam member shared that using a low-strength steroid on facial psoriasis led to an unexpected skin reaction.
Always use topical steroids exactly as prescribed, and avoid stopping them suddenly, as this can trigger a psoriasis flare. When in doubt, check in with your dermatologist!
6 days ago
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