Steroid atrophy

Steroid atrophy, or corticosteroid-induced dermal atrophy, is a side effect of prolonged application of topical corticosteroids. The potential for the condition exists whenever topical corticosteroids are used, even with low potency preparations. Skin atrophy, along with other undesirable side effects such as telangectasia and striae, can appear within 2 to 3 days of starting daily application, the greatest potential occurring when the application is occluded or when the preparation is applied to fragile skin. Risk depends on the strength of the steroid, the length of application, the site treated, and the nature of the skin problem.