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How to manage atopic dermatitis flare-ups despite Cortisone?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have dermatitis on my face, and Cortisone 10 ointment did not help. It has flared up over the past three months. I have tried taking different things out of my diet. I think I need a steroid.

Please help.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Your symptom has differential diagnoses like rosacea, photodermatosis, atrophic skin (orange peel appearance), hemorrhagic telangiectasia, or a progressive connective tissue disorder. Avoid using steroids or retinoids on the face, as they may worsen the lesion.

I suggest you consult with a specialist doctor, talk with him or her, and take medicines with their consent. This includes:

  1. A very low-potency steroid, like Desonide ointment, for one week to reduce the flare-ups.
  2. Apply 0.75 percent Metronidazole gel at night for two weeks.
  3. Apply Photostable sunscreen thrice daily for two months. Apply sunscreen even when you stay indoors. Apply it 20 minutes before going outdoors.
  4. Keep the skin hydrated and drink seven to eight glasses of water daily.
  5. Avoid direct sunlight. Use sun protection measures.
  6. Wear broad-brimmed hats.
  7. Use mild soap and fragrance-free products on skin.
  8. Avoid harsh soaps, chemicals, or cosmetics on the skin.
  9. Moisturize your skin frequently.

Follow up with answers to my questions after three weeks.

  1. Is it burning on exposure to the sun?
  2. Have you used steroid cream?
  3. Do you have a history of atopy, allergies, or fever?
  4. What is your occupation?

Kindly revert with the answers.

I hope you find the information helpful.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

Can I get those creams over the counter?

Please suggest.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You can use it over the counter. Flushing and persistent redness are signs of rosacea. Steroids or retinoids flare up rosacea. I suggest you use broad-spectrum sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight. Avoid excess use of cosmetics, make-up products, oily, greasy products, or chemicals that can flare up the sensitive skin of a rosacea patient.

I suggest 1 percent Hydrocortisone gel or Elica gel if Desonide ointment is not available to reduce facial flushing. Use it for seven to ten days. I suggest Desowen lotion on every alternate day for ten days.

Relax and make yourself stress-free, as stress is the major contributing factor. Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, hot beverages, or smoking, as they aggravate rosacea. Use a mild cleanser like Cetaphil cleanser twice daily to wash your face.

Gently pat dry with a soft towel. Do not rub the skin vigorously. Drink adequate water. Moisturize the skin with Venusia max lotion or cream four to five times daily. Consume healthy food rich in iron, vitamins A and C, proteins, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids.

I hope this will help you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byDr. K. Shobana

Published At August 14, 2022
Reviewed AtFebruary 16, 2026

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