Corticosteroids are a type of anti-inflammatory medication that is effective in the treatment and prevention of many health problems, including skin disorders. Though there are several types of corticosteroids, all work on the same principal – reducing or preventing inflammation.

Corticosteroids can be administered through several different methods. These include:

• Topical treatments (lotions, creams, ointments and gels). Medication is applied directly to the skin to treat that skin area.
  
  
• Oral methods (e.g., pills, liquids). Medication is swallowed and absorbed into the bloodstream where it spreads throughout the body.
  
  
• Intravenous (I.V.) methods. Medication is injected under the skin through a needle and syringe. It enters the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body.

Corticosteroids work by mimicking the hormone cortisol, which the adrenal gland naturally produces to protect the body against illness. It is unclear how exactly corticosteroids are able to so effectively reduce inflammation, but studies have shown that the medications lower the amount of chemicals released by some inflammatory cells. This leads to decreased swelling in inflamed areas.

Topical corticosteroids are the type of corticosteroid medication most often prescribed to treat skin conditions. Ointments and creams are among the most effective means of delivering corticosteroids. In some cases, other methods may be used to enhance the effect of these medications. For example, a thin plastic film is sometimes used to cover a topical corticosteroid and enhance the absorption of the medication. This method, called an occlusive dressing, may be used to treat stubborn cases of psoriasis and severe eczema.

Patients should use corticosteroids only to treat specific conditions exactly as recommended by their physician. Corticosteroids are not used to treat all skin conditions. For example, topical corticosteroids should not be used to treat bacterial, viral or fungal skin infections.

Individuals are advised to never stop taking a corticosteroid treatment abruptly as serious side effects can result. A physician can provide a schedule for safely discontinuing the use of corticosteroids.