Abstract
Corticosteroids are one of the anti-inflammatory drugs that are used widely by dermatologists. Significant local adverse effects can happen if topical corticosteroids (TCs) are used incorrectly. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of facial TCs misuse and its adverse effects. This was cross-sectional research: a self-reported questionnaire was distributed among a population of Saudi Arabians aged 16 years and above who were using TCs consecutively. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. A total of 611 participants were enrolled in the survey: 401 (65.6%) were university graduates, while 187 (30.6%) were below high school level of education. The number of participants using TCs was 279 (45.7%), while 332 (54.3%) did not use steroids topically. The most used TCs were Mometasone furoate 0.1% cream (18.2%), followed by Fusidic acid/Betamethasone cream (16.7%). A total of 46 reported facial TCs’ side effects. Peeling (52.2%) was the most reported side effect, followed by redness (41.3%). In conclusion, the use of facial TCs among the Saudi population is not uncommon (16.5%). A large population are not aware of the side effects of the unsupervised use of TCs. An effort should be made to increase awareness of the adverse effects of TCs.
Highlights
In 1950, Philip Hench, Edward Kendall, and Tadeus Reichstein discovered the corticosteroid hormone [1]
Topical corticosteroid is the synthetic form of natural corticosteroid which is synthesized in the adrenal cortex [3]
Topical steroid damaged face (TSDF) was a newly described phenomenon in 2008, which is characterized by a group of symptoms induced by the prolonged, unsupervised usage of topical corticosteroids (TCs) on the face, regardless of the potency [6]
Summary
In 1950, Philip Hench, Edward Kendall, and Tadeus Reichstein discovered the corticosteroid hormone [1]. Topical corticosteroids are widely used by dermatologists and are highly effective in treating a variety of dermatological disorders. Topical corticosteroids (TCs) have a rapid effect in controlling dermatologic-inflammatory conditions due to their anti-inflammatory, anti-pruritic, and immunosuppressive effects on the skin [4]. There are different potencies of TCs ranging from mild to very potent They are used over different body parts, including the face. Side effects are notable on soft, sensitive areas of the body with a high rate of transcutaneous absorption, such as the face. These adverse effects can include acne, telangiectasia, steroids rosacea, and hyper/hypopigmentation. We aimed to assess the prevalence of TSDF among the population of Saudi Arabia and the associated adverse effects
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