what is topical steroid withdrawal

Topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) is a condition that can occur when a person stops using topical steroids after prolonged use, usually more than two weeks. It is also known as red burning skin, steroid dermatitis, or red skin syndrome. Symptoms of TSW include redness, burning, itchiness, peeling, scabs, hot skin, swelling, hives, and/or oozing for a length of time. Topical steroid addiction (TSA) is another condition that can occur when a person uses topical steroids for a long time, and the skin becomes dependent on them. This cycle is known as steroid addiction syndrome. When the medication is stopped, the skin experiences uncontrollable, spreading dermatitis and worsening skin inflammation, which requires a stronger topical steroid to get the same result as the first prescription. After the withdrawal period is over, the atopic dermatitis can cease or is less severe than it was before. The exact amount of topical steroid use that causes TSW is not yet known, and more research needs to be done to better understand it. However, millions of people have used topical steroids safely over the past 70 years, and the benefits of correct use vastly outweigh the risks.