Steroid creams are commonly used to treat eczema and reduce inflammation and itching associated with it. The choice of topical steroid will depend on the severity of the eczema, the age of the person, and the location of the affected area. Steroid creams are classified from the most potent (Class 1) to least potent (Class 7) . The most common types of mild steroid creams include Hydrocortisone 1% cream, Hc45 Hydrocortisone cream, and Fucidin H cream. Moderate-strength steroid creams include Eumovate, which contains clobetasone, a moderately potent corticosteroid that reduces redness, itching, and swelling. The most potent steroid creams are available only by prescription and include mometasone furoate (Elocon ointment), fluticasone (Cutivate), amcinonide (Cyclocort), betamethasone dipropionate (Betanate), and triamcinolone acetonide (Kenalog) .
It is important to use the weakest possible steroid that will do the job, and to choose a steroid ointment or cream that is suitable for the severity of eczema and the affected area of skin. Applying a thin layer just once a day is often enough, and using the strongest available treatment doesn’t guarantee the best or fastest results. Topical steroids can cause, aggravate, or mask skin infections such as impetigo, tinea, herpes simplex, malassezia folliculitis, and molluscum contagiosum. It is important to follow a healthcare professional’s instructions carefully and to tell the prescribing doctor about any other medications and supplements that are being used or vaccines that have been had recently.
