Do topical corticosteroids treat nummular eczema?

Nummular eczema causes itchy, coin-shaped patches that may become dry, scaly, cracked, or ooze during a flare. A topical corticosteroid can calm the inflammatory response and reduce the urge to scratch. It does not replace skin-barrier care, and a patch that resembles nummular eczema can also have another cause, including infection. If the appearance is unusual or treatment does not help, an examination is useful before repeating courses.

Use the prescribed product on the affected patches according to the directions, then apply a fragrance-free moisturiser regularly, especially after bathing. Keep baths and showers comfortably warm rather than hot, use a gentle cleanser, and pat the skin dry. Avoid wool, fragranced products, harsh detergents, and scratching. Do not use a steroid on the face, groin, or skin folds unless your clinician has chosen it for that site, and do not cover treated skin with a tight dressing without advice.

Arrange a review if patches continue to ooze, form yellow crusts, become increasingly painful, spread quickly, or fail to settle with the prescribed plan. These changes can signal infection or a different diagnosis. Seek urgent help for rapidly spreading redness with fever, severe swelling, or facial swelling with breathing difficulty.

Ask which strength is suitable for each body site, how often to apply it, and when to stop or step down. Ask which moisturiser is best for your skin and whether the patches need testing if they are not improving.