HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Corticosteroids for Psoriasis
How Well It Works
How well the product works depends on how strong it is, what kind of cream or ointment is used, where it is applied, and how much of it is absorbed into the skin. Medium-strength and high-strength corticosteroids are not used where the skin is thin, such as on the face or the genitals. The use of corticosteroids is limited by their side effects and short-term effectiveness.
Corticosteroid creams are effective for short-term relief of psoriasis.Reference 1 Use of corticosteroid creams turns thick, red skin plaque into thin, flat areas that are more comfortable and less visible.
High-strength products are effective on areas of thick skin, such as knees and elbows.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: January 9, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Amy McMichael, MD - Dermatology |
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