The use and abuse of topical corticosteroids in dermatology

Since their introduction almost 30 years ago, topical corticosteroids have made a dramatic contribution to the management of a wide range of non-infective skin disorders. Their principal mode of action is anti-inflammatory and a variety of potencies and vehicles is available. Several important side effects have been described, of which skin atrophy is the most common, but with careful usage the risks are not great.