Topical steroids: Wonder creams not fairness creams

It was a usual day at work. One woman, who happened to be an in-patient visitor stopped by the hospital pharmacy asking for a medicine showing its packaging if it is available.

I checked over and came to know she is asking for a steroidal cream. Upon inquiry along with also noticing melasma-like dark spots on her face, if it was physician prescribed, she stated, it was recommended by her friend who overcame melasma after its regular use and her friend had suggested it would work wonders on her face too.

Over a short period of use of topical steroids, the result might be lighter skin, the disappearance of dark spots, and a softer texture which is what we all want. 

However, upon prolonged use, it causes epidermal thinning, exposing the deeper and sensitive layer of skin which when comes in contact with harsh UV radiations from usual sunlight, can cause skin burn and thus permanent damage to your skin.

Meanwhile, topical corticosteroids can penetrate through the skin to the bloodstream, thus, continuous application is also likely to increase blood glucose levels.

No objection, steroid works wonders be it given in tablets, injections, otic or optic drops, nasal spray, or creams. They are proven to exhibit top-notch effectiveness for specific conditions used. But, steroids, in any formulation type come with their share fair of side effects and need medical guidance and monitoring while they are used. There is a proper method to begin the therapy, continue and end along with precautionary measures to be taken.

I tried my best to guide her. She did not get the cream she was looking for but I hope she got a message every steroid-using ignorant people should be informed about.

My dear pharmacists, if you happen to encounter such a case, please show a little courtesy to ask and know the background. Educate them to first reach out to a specialist.