Keratosis

I have very flaky skin on my face and neck.  Minor itching in the neck area.  I went to a dermatologist 6 months ago and he diagnosed it as Keratosis and prescribed desonide.  This worked well, problem is I am on my 4 tube and am worried about long term use of this ointment.  If I stop using it, the flakiness returns.  What type of Keratosis is this?  Is it normal for it to take a while to clear up and/or I am unnecessarily concerned about the use of desonide long term?

Thank you.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Desonide is a weak steroid that can be used on faces and children and other sensitive areas, so you don't need to worry about long-term use.  I think you may have heard the name wrong, though--a keratosis is a scaly, wart-like bump.  I suggest you call the doctor for clarification of the name of the diagnosis.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff