Is there a way of reversing thinned skin due to hydrocortisone

I used to have eczema around my nose when I was a child.  I was prescribed hydrocortisone which cured it but ever since then the skin around my nose has been red (i last used the cream about 15 yrs ago).  I think this is possibly due to the skin having been thinned by the hydrocortisone.  Is there any way of reversing this damage to my skin?


This discussion is related to Hydrocortisone and  long term use related skin problems.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to steroid induced rosacea. It is an adverse effects of using steroids. Some patients develop steroid-induced rosacea within weeks of applying a topical steroid; others may not experience it for years.

You can use tacrolimus ointment for this after consulting a dermatologist.Using this rosacea often resolves the itch, redness, and tenderness of steroid-induced rosacea in 7 to 10 days with twice daily application. Complete clearing of steroid-induced rosacea usually takes 1 to 2 months. Sometimes clearing takes a bit longer. Avoiding rosacea triggers, such as caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol, also may help clear the skin.

I hope it helps. Take care and regards.