Steroid creams could help relieve itching and inflammation associated with eczema. Over-the-counter and prescription options are available, but it’s important not to overuse them due to possible side effects.

Eczema refers to a group of conditions characterized by patches of inflamed, itchy, and dry skin. The most common kind is atopic dermatitis.

Topical medications, which are drugs applied to the surface of the skin, are the first-line treatment for eczema. This may include steroid or nonsteroid creams.

Some topical steroids are available over-the-counter (OTC) to help relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe a steroid cream.

That said, steroid creams should not be used long term, as they may cause side effects.

Learn more about the types and possible benefits and side effects of steroid creams for eczema.

Topical steroid creams, also called topical corticosteroids, are one of the most commonly prescribed treatments for eczema. These creams help reduce inflammation and itching, allowing the skin to begin the healing process.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), topical steroids have been used for more than 60 years, and they’re the most effective eczema treatment.

There are different types of steroid creams, classified from the most potent (Class 1) to the least potent (Class 7). There are a variety of steroid types, concentrations, and dosages.

All steroid creams are for use on the outside of the body only and should never be swallowed or placed inside the body. These creams are meant to be applied directly to an eczema rash.

It’s important to follow a doctor’s instructions or directions on the steroid cream packaging regarding how much to apply and how often to use it.

If you have any questions about using steroid creams, speak to a healthcare professional or pharmacist.

Several types of steroid creams are available to help treat eczema. The best one for you will depend on the type of eczema you have and the severity and location of symptoms.

Different steroid creams used to treat eczema may include:

Over-the-counter (OTC) topical creams

OTC topical medications for eczema can be bought from pharmacies and some grocery stores without a prescription. These are low-strength creams that may help reduce irritation and inflammation.

According to the National Eczema Society, two types of OTC topical steroid creams are available:

  • 1% hydrocortisone, a mild topical corticosteroid
  • 0.05% clobetasone (Eumovate), a moderate topical steroid

According to the National Eczema Association, topical hydrocortisone is usually used one to four times per day for up to 7 days.

Other OTC topical medications for eczema include antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, Banophen).

Topical prescription steroids

Prescription steroids can help reduce inflammation and lessen itching, allowing the skin to heal. They come in various strengths, and your doctor will choose the one they feel is most appropriate for your condition and the severity of your eczema.

Prescription steroid creams may include:

Before using any type of steroid cream, talk with a doctor about which ones might be best for you. Not everyone will respond or react to steroid creams in the same way.

Symptoms of eczema usually begin between ages 2 months and 5 years, according to the AAD. Up to 3 in 10 children will experience eczema, making it the most common skin condition of children under 10 years old.

Typically, two types of steroid creams are used for kids:

  • OTC 1% hydrocortisone cream for mild cases
  • a prescription cream like Synalar for more severe itching

A doctor can help you develop the best treatment plan for your child’s eczema.

Although topical corticosteroids are an effective remedy for eczema, possible risks are associated with their use.

Side effects will depend on the strength of the steroid and where it’s used, but it’s important to note that even OTC steroids may cause side effects.

Healthcare professionals usually classify side effects as local or systemic:

Local side effects

Local side effects are those that affect a specific spot on the body, usually where the topical cream is applied.

Local side effects of steroid cream may include:

Less common side effects may include:

  • pigment alteration
  • delayed wound healing

Systemic side effects

Systemic reactions affect the entire body rather than just the area where the medication is applied. They’re rare because the skin doesn’t usually absorb enough medication to cause a significant reaction, but they can happen.

If side effects do occur, they’re often related to:

  • applying larger amounts than you need
  • using them long term, such as longer than 7 days
  • applying them on areas of the body where the skin is thinner, such as on the face

When systemic side effects occur, they may include:

How long does steroid cream take to work for eczema?

You may start to notice symptom improvement a few hours after applying a steroid cream. Many people notice improvements after applying steroid creams once daily for 3 days.

However, it may take up to 14 days to notice significant improvements.

What happens if you use too much steroid cream on eczema?

Applying too much steroid cream could lead to several possible side effects. The most common is skin atrophy, which is when your skin gets very thin.

Healthcare professionals advise applying a small amount of steroid cream once daily for eczema.

Can I buy steroid cream for eczema over the counter?

A mild steroid cream, 1% hydrocortisone, can be purchased over the counter.

Topical steroid creams are among the most commonly used eczema treatments. They’re available both over the counter in low dosages and as prescription-only creams, which tend to be stronger.

When using steroid creams, follow either the instructions on the package or your doctor’s instructions. Don’t use the creams for longer than recommended. If you have side effects, call a doctor.