What are the side effects of dermatologic corticosteroids?
When dermatologic corticosteroids are used properly, adverse effects are very rare. Even so, the following effects have been reported: • blood-containing blisters on skin • burning and itching of skin • increased skin sensitivity (for some brands of betamethasone lotion) • lack of healing of skin condition • numbness in fingers • painful, red, or itchy, pus-containing blisters in hair follicles • raised, dark red, wart-like spots on skin, especially when used on the face • skin infection • thinning of skin with easy bruising Excessive use, either because of use of an inappropriately potent steroid, prolonged use, or inappropriate use of occlusion has been known to lead to more severe adverse effects. However, these reactions are very rare. Source: The Gale Group.
