Effect of topical corticosteroids on human sebum production assessed by two different methods

Topical corticosteroids are widely used in cutaneous diseases. Although their mode of action on different skin compartments has been documented, little is known about their effects on the human sebaceous gland. We investigated the effects of two corticosteroids of differing potency on the excretion of sebum by means of two validated techniques: the Sebutape and the Lipometre. This study was conducted on the forehead skin of normal healthy subjects. The results obtained with both techniques correlated well. The application of both corticosteroids during a 4-week period led to a significant decrease in sebum excretion. This decrease was more pronounced with the more potent corticosteroid (Dermovate). In the light of these findings, it is likely that topical corticosteroids exert an anti-proliferative action upon the sebaceous cells in a similar manner to their effect in other skin compartments.