Steroid Phobia: A Common Problem in Skin Care
- Gary Chia
- Jan 24
- 2 min read
As a dermatologist in Batu Pahat, I often see patients hesitant to use steroid creams. This fear, known as steroid phobia, can delay proper treatment and make skin conditions worse. Let me share a story.
A mother brought her 6-year-old son, Farid, to my clinic. His eczema was severe—red, itchy patches on his arms, legs, and neck. She had been prescribed steroid creams before but didn’t use them, worried they would “thin the skin” and harm her son. Instead, she tried natural remedies, but his condition got worse. By the time they saw me, Farid was scratching constantly, couldn’t sleep, and had infected skin.
How Steroids Work
Steroid creams are very effective for calming skin inflammation. They reduce redness, swelling, and itchiness by controlling the overactive immune response in the skin. For conditions like eczema and psoriasis, where inflammation is the main problem, steroids are essential to help the skin heal.
Why Steroids Are Needed
Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis are not just about dry skin. They involve chronic inflammation. If left untreated, the skin can flare up, become thickened, and even get infected. Steroids are a key part of stopping this process and managing the disease.
How to Use Steroids Correctly
Steroids are safe when used the right way. Follow your doctor’s instructions:
1. Apply a thin layer: Use just a fingertip unit (FTU) for small areas.
2. Stick to the schedule: Usually once or twice a day, for the number of days prescribed.
3. Complete the course: Don’t stop halfway unless advised—it helps prevent flares.
Side Effects Are Rare and Reversible
The most common fear is skin thinning, but this is rare when used correctly. Other mild side effects, like redness or irritation, usually go away after stopping. Serious side effects, like thinning or stretch marks, happen only with prolonged overuse or misuse.
When to Be Careful
• Sensitive areas: The face, neck, or armpits absorb more steroids, so we use milder formulations.
• Children’s skin: It’s thinner, so they need lower-strength steroids for safety.
Don’t Fear Steroids
For Farid, using a low-strength steroid cream made a big difference. In two weeks, his redness and itching improved, and he could finally sleep better. His mother realized steroids weren’t harmful when used properly—they were essential to helping her son’s skin heal.
Steroids, combined with moisturizers and good skin care habits, can greatly improve inflammatory skin conditions and quality of life. Don’t let fear of steroids stop you from treating your skin effectively.
If you’re unsure, feel free to consult dermatologist!
