Types of Corticosteroid Ointment and Skin Problems that Can Be Treated

Corticosteroid ointment is used to reduce inflammation and irritation of the skin. Based on the level of strength in relieving skin problems, these ointments are grouped into four types.

Corticosteroid ointments are often used to treat most skin problems, such as swelling, redness, and itching, especially in the folds of the body. Corticosteroids work by activating natural substances in the skin that play a role in reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response

Types of Corticosteroid Ointment and Skin Problems that Can Be Treated

Types of Corticosteroid Ointment

Corticosteroid ointments are grouped into four types according to their level of potency, ranging from low, medium, high, to very high. Here is the explanation:

1. Low potency

Corticosteroid ointments that have low potency can be found in pharmacies and purchased over the counter without a prescription. Examples of this low class ointment group are alclometasone dipropionate, desonide, and hydrocortisone.

2. Medium potency

Medicines that are included in moderate potency corticosteroids can only be obtained with a doctor's prescription. Corticosteroid ointments or drugs that have moderate potency are betamethasone valerate, clocortolone pivalate, fluocinolone acetonide, flurandrenolide, hydrocortisone butyrate, and mometasone.

3. High potency

Corticosteroid ointments belonging to this group can only be purchased with a doctor's prescription. There are various types of corticosteroids that have high potency, namely amcinonide, desoximetasone, halcinonide, and triamcinolone acetonide.

4. Very high potential

Just like high-potency corticosteroid ointments, very high-potency corticosteroid ointments also require a prescription.

Drugs belonging to this group of very high potency corticosteroids include betamethasone dipropionate, clobetasol propionate, diflorasone diacetate, fluocinonide, and halobetasol propionate.

Conditions Treatable with Corticosteroid Ointment

There are several skin disorders that are commonly treated with corticosteroid ointments, including:

  • Eczema
  • Allergic contact dermatitis
  • Atopic dermatitis
  • Psoriasis
  • Vitiligo
  • Lichen planus
  • Discoid lupus erythematosus

But keep in mind, the use of this corticosteroid ointment is usually only to relieve the symptoms that appear, not to completely cure skin disorders.

This ointment is classified as safe for use by adults and children. However, if you have an infection, open wound, rosacea, or acne, it is not recommended that you use corticosteroid ointment unless directed by your doctor.

Side Effects Caused by Corticosteroid Ointment

The appearance of a burning or stinging sensation is the most common side effect felt when first applying corticosteroid ointment. However, this condition is not dangerous and will improve with use.

The use of corticosteroid ointment may also cause some other side effects, namely:

  • The skin becomes thinner, making it more susceptible to injuries such as bruises
  • Contact dermatitis
  • Skin discoloration
  • Folliculitis
  • Rosacea
  • Stretch marks
  • Acne getting worse
  • Skin infection getting worse
  • Excessive hair growth in the area of ​​​​the skin that is applied to the ointment

The risk of side effects is more likely if you apply a corticosteroid ointment with a very high potency level. In addition, long-term use and the large area of ​​the body that is smeared with the ointment can also increase the risk of this side effect.

Proper Use of Corticosteroid Ointment

Corticosteroid ointment usually only needs to be applied 1-2 times a day for 1-2 weeks. Use the ointment only on the tip of your finger and apply it evenly over the surface of the problem skin until it is completely absorbed.

Always use corticosteroid ointment according to the instructions on the package or follow the doctor's advice, to reduce the risk of side effects. Also make sure not to use this ointment more than the time recommended by the doctor, especially for the long term.

If used long term, corticosteroid ointment can also cause diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and even glaucoma.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before using this medication to ensure safety.

If your skin problems do not improve after using corticosteroid ointment, or even get worse, you should consult a doctor for further treatment.

Label : Health cat_Health

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