Topical corticosteroids for contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory reaction after skin touches an irritant or an allergen. The rash may be red, itchy, swollen, cracked, scaly, or blistered, and its shape can reflect where contact occurred. A topical corticosteroid dampens inflammation in the skin; it does not remove the substance that caused the reaction.

The product’s strength and the body area matter. Thin facial skin, skin folds, and genitals need more cautious prescribing than thicker skin on the hands or feet. A rash that keeps returning may require help identifying an exposure, not simply repeated cream use.

Apply a thin layer only to the affected skin and follow the prescribed schedule. Wash hands after application unless the hands are being treated. Use a bland moisturiser and protect the area from the suspected trigger, detergents, fragrance, metals, plants, or workplace substances as relevant.

Do not put steroid cream on the eyes, broken skin, or an area with pus unless a clinician specifically directs you. Covering treated skin can increase absorption, so use dressings only when advised. Stop adding new products while the rash is active so changes are easier to interpret.

Get urgent help for swelling of the lips or tongue, breathing difficulty, widespread blistering, or a rapidly worsening rash. Arrange medical review for fever, pus, severe pain, eye involvement, or a rash that does not improve as expected. Repeated flares may call for patch testing or a different diagnosis.

Ask which strength is appropriate, how much to apply, and how long to use it on each body area. Ask how to identify and avoid the trigger, whether moisturiser can be used alongside it, and what to do if the rash returns after stopping.