HYDROCORTISONE SIDE EFFECTS

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON ’TOPICAL’ HYDROCORTISONE SIDE EFFECTS?

If you find that your skin becomes very dry, red, peels, stings or puffy you should stop using the product unless you were expected these conditions from earlier consultation with your GP.

SKIN THINNING (ATROPHY)

Possibly the most common side effect of using topical hydrocortisone and steroid products is thinning of the upper layers of skin. Extra caution and constant monitoring is required in areas where skin is already thinner for example the face. Atrophy can occur in any area of skin being treated especially body folds, body creases, arm pits and groin. As the skin becomes thinner it appears shiny, lacks surface markings and blood vessels often become more visible.

STRETCH MARK APPEARANCE (STRIAE)

With topical hydrocortisone it’s more typical for stretch marks (Striae) to appear after skin has become thin and weakened. Stretch mark scars are extremely difficult to rid but aesthetic procedures like laser and micro needling are known to work after multiple treatments.

EASY BRUISING AND TEARING OF SKIN

Another common side effect of using topical hydrocortisone and steroid products is easy bruising and in some cases tearing of skin. Aside from the skins appearance and sensitivity the skin can also be more vulnerable to infection.

SUSCEPTIBILITY TO SKIN INFECTIONS

With less skin layers, the skin is less protected from allergens that can cause infection resulting in pain and the possibility of longer healing and damage to the area.

FINE BLOOD VESSEL APPEARANCE (TELANGIECTASIA)

Another common side effect includes telangiectasia the appearance of fine blood vessels commonly in facial areas and legs, knee joints, upper thighs and ankles. As the blood vessels swell under the skins surface they become more visible and are unlikely to disappear without the use of injection, laser or light therapies.

SKIN DISCOLORATION (PIGMENTATION CHANGE)

It’s very possible to suffer from pigmentation changes to where the topical steroid has been applied which tends to be more noticeable in darker skins. There are various topical skin lightening products and treatments on the market that should over time reverse discolouration.

STEROID ROSACEA AND ACNE APPEARANCE

Generally with thinning and weakening of skin using hydrocortisone can cause facial redness (steroid induced redness/rosacea) and skin to become pimply. It’s not generally recommended to use hydrocortisone if you are already suffering from rosacea or acne as the conditions may worsen.

The anti-inflammatory action of a steroid product is achieved through its ability to constrict capillaries within the skin. With use skin becomes tolerant and capillaries do not constrict to the same degree which can result in more frequent applications or higher doses to achieve the expected result. Aside from the side effects of prolonged use of steroid products it’s important to plan for those possibly crucial and problematic flare-up scenarios (skin care strategy). This tolerance issue known as (Tachyphylaxis) together with the side effects associated with topical steroids is the basis for finding quality alternative products for maintaining comfort (at least) during non-flare up stages.