Does topical corticosteroids treat contact dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis is a skin reaction after contact with an irritant or an allergen. It may cause redness, itching, swelling, scaling, cracking or blisters where exposure occurred. A topical corticosteroid dampens the inflammatory reaction and can make the flare more comfortable. It does not remove the trigger, repair every source of skin damage or prove whether the reaction was irritant or allergic. The preparation and duration depend on the body site and severity; thin skin such as the face and folds needs particular care.

Use the prescribed steroid on clean, dry skin exactly as directed. Wash off or avoid the suspected product, and use gloves or protective measures when the exposure cannot be avoided. Keep a note of soaps, cosmetics, metals, plants, workplace materials and other contacts around the time of each flare. A bland moisturiser can support the skin barrier when suitable. If episodes recur or the trigger is unclear, a dermatologist may consider patch testing.

Get prompt medical advice when the rash spreads quickly, covers a large area, becomes painful, develops pus or fever, or affects the eyes, lips or genitals. Seek emergency help for facial swelling with breathing or swallowing difficulty. A rash that does not improve as expected may need a diagnosis check or a different treatment.

Ask whether your pattern fits irritant or allergic contact dermatitis, how to identify the trigger, which steroid is appropriate for each site and when to use moisturiser. Ask whether patch testing or an alternative treatment is needed.