Side effects of hormone ointment for eczema (nature knows best)

The increasingly alarming reports regarding the side effects of corticosteroid creams for eczema underscore our philosophy once again. Wherever possible, always choose a natural treatment for skin problems, such as facial eczema . Why is nature the starting point for all our products? Why should you use corticosteroid cream for eczema, and what are the downsides? Read more about the (sometimes very serious) side effects of corticosteroid creams and a possible alternative.

Why hormone ointment against eczema

Eczema is an annoying skin problem characterized by itchy, red, flaky, and dry skin . When you visit your GP with eczema symptoms, you are often quickly prescribed a hormone ointment, also known as corticosteroids. These are medicinal ointments that contain hormones. You can view it as a 'powerful remedy' with a relatively rapid effect on symptoms of an eczema flare-up.

What is the disadvantage of hormone ointment for eczema?

With eczema it is very important that the application is carried out according to a strict schedule and that the hormone ointment is also reduced correctly. Although, when used correctly, a hormone ointment can relieve eczema symptoms with few side effects, it usually does not cure. This is the biggest disadvantage of hormone ointment for eczema. You will not get rid of the eczema, but the symptoms will be suppressed. It is also very important that the correct strength of corticosteroid ointment is used. And not entirely unimportant; the use of a combination with the correct basic ointments.

The biggest and sometimes very serious disadvantage of hormone ointment mainly occurs during its withdrawal, also known as TSA and TSW. More about that later.

Tip: Flow Propolis & Probiotics rescue cream
This product is a natural remedy for eczema and also suitable as a base cream for a hormone ointment treatment. This product ensures that the skin remains oily and does not dry out. Dry skin itches more and is more sensitive to external stimuli.

Side effects of hormone ointment with corticosteroids

If you use hormone ointment in the right dosage and in the right way, you can limit unwanted symptoms as much as possible. These are the most common side effects of hormone ointment, depending on the area of ​​the skin where it is used.

• Thinning skin (atrophy)
• Vasodilations (couperosis)
• Red cheeks (rosacea)
• Skin discoloration (whiter and sometimes darker)
• Stretch marks (stretch marks)
• Faster hair growth

TSA (Topical Steroid Addiction) and TSW (Topical Steroid Withdrawal)

The biggest side effect of hormone ointment is that you can develop an addiction due to habituation. When you use corticosteroids for a long time, you need an increasingly stronger cream to keep eczema symptoms under control. This 'addiction' is also known as TSA , or Topical Steroid Addiction.

When TSA patients stop applying the hormone ointment, very severe symptoms can occur. This is also known as TSW ; Topical Steroid Withdrawal. This withdrawal is accompanied by red, burning skin, itching, and scaling, ranging up to inflamed open wounds with fluid and swelling.

Experiences of eczema patients show that the symptoms of TSW can be very serious and sometimes last for months or even years. You can see exactly how this works in the (English) documentary below about Topical Steroid Withdrawal, the most serious side effect of hormone ointment.

The BNN-VARA program Kassa also recently aired a shocking report on these side effects of hormone ointment for eczema. The program's accompanying survey revealed that 9 out of 10 dermatologists are unwilling to support discontinuing hormone ointment.

The importance of a well-functioning skin barrier

You will see this term appear frequently on our website: the skin barrier. This is not without reason, as it forms an important foundation in our natural facial care . You can view the skin barrier as your skin's natural protective layer. Whether it concerns skin problems such as periorbit or acne, an imbalanced skin condition almost always plays a role.

Sensitive skin, in particular , is easily overloaded by the aggressive ingredients in our skincare products. As a result, you need more of them, and before you know it, your skincare routine is caught in a negative spiral.

A well-functioning skin barrier naturally protects your skin against harmful external influences. That is why it is so important to choose a natural facial serum or, for example, a facial peel that respects your skin's natural balance. Cosmetics free from harmful substances are also part of this.

Our natural alternative to hormone ointment against eczema

In our range, you will find all the care that fits perfectly into a natural treatment for eczema, such as our new propolis cream.

The result of Flow propolis ointment for eczema symptoms.

In the category -atopic skin- you can read more about the best skincare routine against eczema. These products can also be used very well in addition to and after an eczema treatment with hormone ointment. As extra support for building your skin's natural protective layer!