Topical steroid induced scarring.

[sooky17]

What does skin atrophy look like?  I used a steroid cream Triamcinolone on my face months back.  I used it periodically over the course of 3 to 4 months.  Now my facial skin looks almost scarred.  I can't quite tell if it is permanent scarring or atrophy.  Can a steroid cream produce scarring?  Is this reversible?  How long does it usually take to reverse?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Steroid induced rosacea or dermatitis 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.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.But pls don’t worry as it is not a permanent condition.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries.Warm regards.

[sooky17]

I'm pretty sure that this is not rosacea that I am experiencing.  It is the actual texture and scarred appearance of the skin that I am concerned about.  Could you give me a description of what atrophy looks like or if scarring could occur from a steroid cream?  Any help that you could give me would be appreciated.
Thank you.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Scarring cannot result from topical steroid use.However redness and erythema and sometimes flare up of acne can occur but this is temporary and disappears with steroid discontinuation.
I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts. Warm regards.