Steroids in the form of topical steroids are one of the most commonly used forms of treatments for eczema. They are an eczema solution that appears to be making the grade. Topical steroids are particularly useful, not when a case of eczema is calm, but when it is experiencing a flare-up and skin is inflamed, red and terribly itchy. When the ouch it at its extreme, thats when topical steroids are most needed. Steroids serve to reduce the level of inflammation and are used across the board with most kinds of eczema. Topical steroids are available in four different strengths and these include mild, moderately potent (or moderately strong), potent and very potent. A doctor will decide what strength of steroid cream a patient requires and it is dependent on three factors- the patients age, how severe the skin condition is and the part of the body (including the size of the area) that is affected by eczema.

When applied, topical steroids must be put on the skin with a very fine application and it is important to always carefully follow your doctors directions for use. Never use a heavy hand in applying the topical steroid and dont apply it more times a day that you were originally instructed to. Regular visits to your physician are necessary when you are using topical steroids to ensure that the treatment is effective and to determine if the dosage is proper.

When eczema is at its most severe, sometimes oral steroids are prescribed to patients. This form of steroid is often a last resort and is only prescribed when topical steroids have been rendered ineffective. Dermatologists are more likely to prescribe oral steroids to patients as opposed to a general practitioner. There are potential side effects involved with steroid use, in particular the oral steroids, and those who take them need to be monitored extremely closely. It is important to note that the steroids used for eczema treatments are not the same as the steroids taken by athletes.

Topical corticosteroids have been used in the treatment of eczema for over a period of thirty years. They come available in the form of creams, ointments and lotions. The strengths of topical cortisone creams vary. To use an example, hydrocortisone cream is available in 1% and it is weaker in potency than is Betamethasone Valerte, which is available in 0.1% strength. Still weaker than those two is Clobetasol Propionate which has strength of 0.05%. For those suffering from mild to moderate eczema, steroids reduce flare-ups by acting as a moisturizing agent and providing a moderate level of potency. A good example of a topical corticosteroid in this instance is Eumovate. For moderate to severe cases of eczema, steroids also provide moisturizing and are excellent at relieving itching and swelling of the skin. An example of a good potent topical corticosteroid is Fluticasone Propionate. This type must be applied to the skin two times a week to work effectively.

In order to minimize the side effects of using topical steroids, it is important to use them on only the thickest and most resistant patches of affected skin. They also should only be used once a day and for no longer a period than two to three weeks. The most successful results when it comes to steroid use are seen when steroids are applied in the early evening hours.