HC Cream info I found

[Guest guest]

So, if this rate of absorption is accurate, I don't think HC cream could

work because you would need tons to mimic the oral dose. Thoughts?

Skin absorption of topical steroids

http://dermnetnz.org/treatments/topical-steroids.html

Steroids are absorbed at different rates from different parts of the body. A

steroid that works on the face may not work on the palm. But a potent

steroid may cause side effects on the face. For example:

a.. Forearm absorbs 1%

b.. Armpit absorbs 4%

c.. Face absorbs 7%

d.. Eyelids and genitals absorb 30%

e.. Palm absorbs 0.1%

f.. Sole absorbs 0.05%

Side effects of topical steroids

Internal side effects

If more than 50g of clobetasol propionate, or 500g of hydrocortisone is used

per week, sufficient steroid may be absorbed through the skin to result in

adrenal gland suppression and/or eventually Cushing's syndrome.

a.. Adrenal Gland Suppression.

Topical steroids can suppress the production of natural steroids, which

are essential for healthy living. Stopping the steroids suddenly may then

result in illness.

b.. Cushing's Syndrome If large amounts of steroid are absorbed through

the skin, fluid retention, raised blood pressure, diabetes etc. may result.

Skin side effects

Local side effects of topical steroids include:

a.. Skin thinning (atrophy) and stretch marks (striae).

b.. Easy bruising and tearing of the skin.

c.. Perioral dermatitis (rash around the mouth).

d.. Enlarged blood vessels (telangiectasia).

e.. Susceptibility to skin infections.

f.. Disguising infection e.g. tinea incognito.

g.. Allergy to the steroid cream.

The risk of these side effects depends on the strength of the steroid, the

length of application, the site treated, and the nature of the skin problem.

If you use a potent steroid cream on your face as a moisturiser, you will

develop the side effects within a few weeks. If you use 1% hydrocortisone

cream on your hands for 25 years, you will have done no harm at all (except

for having wasted a lot of money!)

Bruising

Skin thinning

Prominent capillaries

Stretch marks

Adverse effects of topical steroids

How to use topical steroids

Ask for specific instructions how to use your topical steroid(s). See

DermNet's information about fingertip units. Which one, where, when, how

often and for how long? Cream, ointment or lotion? This is particularly

important if:

a.. You are using strong steroids over large areas of your body.

b.. You have been asked to use plastic to cover treated areas (occlusion).

c.. Your skin condition persists for more than two or three weeks.

d.. You are a child.

Topical steroids are very effective medications. They work by reducing

inflammation, and when used correctly are very safe.

Apply topical steroids only to the areas affected by the skin disease, and

generally only once or twice daily. If your skin is dry, apply an emollient

frequently.

Medsafe – data sheets on several topical steroids