Why does my eczema relapse whenever I stop steroid creams?

Doctor's Answers 1

Thank you for the question

Eczema is a condition that is often chronic and there can be periods of remission and relapse of the rash. The relapse can be due to the nature of the disease. However, there are often external triggers that can cause the eczema to flare. These include skin infections, contact with soap and irritants, constant scratching, hot and cold environments, contact with dust and allergens.

It is important to examine closely to see if any of these triggers present and they should be discontinued. Regular use of gentle soaps and moisturizers even when the skin eczema has settled may help to reduce flares.

In very recurrent cases, do see your dermatologist or doctor for a a detailed assessment. Proactive treatment can be considered to prevent the frequent flares. This is best discussed with you doctor.

Similar Questions

How can I control bad eczema flares without using oral steroids?

I’m sorry to hear about your bad skin condition. In life, its always a battle. We always have to weigh our odds in everything we do (or NOT do). Same goes for medication, our first pharmacology lecturer to “choose our poisons wisely”, and very apt indeed. If your flares are causing you a lot of problems, sometimes the benefits of using them might outweigh the “perceived” risks. Certainly, there are potential risks of using oral and cream steroids, but they are meant for short term use.

Photo of Dr Paul Ang

Answered By

Dr Paul Ang

General Practitioner

How long should steroid cream for eczema be used for? (photo)

Hi, We usually would advice applying steroid creams till the rash has cleared. When the rash resolves, it may leave a brownish pigmentation and this is termed post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This pigmentation will gradually resolve on it own. You should stop the topical steroid application at this stage. Prolonged use of topical steriods can lead to thinning of the skin and skin atrophy. Striae or stretch marks can develop with overuse of topical steroids. The risk of skin thinning depends on the strength, amount and frequency of application of steroids.

Photo of Dr Colin Theng

Answered By

Dr Colin Theng

Dermatologist

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