Topical corticosteroids are a type of steroid medicine applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation and irritation.

Topical corticosteroids are available in several different forms, including:

• creams
• lotions
• gels
• mousses
• ointments
• tapes and bandages
• solutions

Conditions treated with topical corticosteroids

Conditions widely treated with topical corticosteroids include:

• eczema – such as atopic eczema
• contact dermatitis – which causes symptoms such as dandruff and scaly patches on the skin
• psoriasis

Topical corticosteroids cannot cure these conditions, but can help relieve the symptoms.