Creams, gels, and ointments containing corticosteroids are useful in treating various rashes, particularly eczema and contact dermatitis.

The most potent preparations (avail­able in a variety of corresponding trade names) are desoximetasone, fluocinolone acetonide acetate, and halcinonide; others are beta­methasone, desonide, dexamethasone, flumethasone, fluocinolone acetonide, fluoromethalone, flurandrenolide, hydrocortisone, methyl-prednisolone, prednisolone, and triamcinolone.

Complications in the use of topical steroids occur in proportion to their potency, concentration, or fre­quency and duration of use. When complications do occur, they usu­ally take the form of burning sensations, irritation, itching, dryness, inflammation of the hair follicles, acne, loss of pigmentation, thinning of the skin, stretch marks, a tendency to bruise easily, dilated blood vessels in the skin, and skin ulcers. The risk of infection increases when the area treated is covered with a heavy dressing or a plastic wrap. Topical steroids should be avoided in cases of chicken pox and cowpox (vaccinia). The usual symptoms of scabies infestation (an easily transmitted skin disease, commonly known as mange and char­acterized by itching), as well as some fungal infections, may be ob­scured. Contact dermatitis can result when certain preservatives are used.