What should you know about OTC corticosteroid ointments?

A topical corticosteroid reduces local inflammatory activity in the skin. Ointments are greasy and can help dry, scaly areas, but they are not appropriate for every rash, wound, infection, or unexplained mark. Strength varies, and thin skin such as the face, groin, and skin folds absorbs medicine more readily than thicker areas. The product label may limit the body site and duration of use.

Do not assume a skin complaint needs an injection. Treatments such as cortisone injection, epidural steroid injection, facet joint injection, nerve root block, or sacroiliac joint injection are clinician-delivered procedures for selected musculoskeletal problems, not substitutes for a topical ointment.

Read the active ingredient, strength, age guidance, and body-site warnings. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry affected skin and wash your hands afterward unless the hands are being treated. Avoid eyes, broken skin, and covered dressings unless a clinician directs otherwise. Do not share the tube. Stop and seek advice if the area becomes more irritated, develops pus, spreading redness, blisters, or a new unusual rash. Ask a pharmacist or clinician before use on a child, during pregnancy, or when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Seek prompt care for facial or eye involvement, rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, fever, swelling of the lips or tongue, or breathing difficulty. Arrange an assessment when symptoms recur, fail to improve as the label advises, or appear after a new medicine or exposure. Persistent use can mask an infection or irritate and thin skin, so ongoing treatment should have professional guidance.

What skin condition are we treating? Which strength and body sites are appropriate? How often should I apply it, and when should I stop? Could another medicine or infection explain the rash? What should I use if the skin breaks or becomes infected?