Red Skin Syndrome is characterized by uncontrollable, spreading dermatitis and worsening skin inflammation, which requires a stronger topical steroid to get the same result as the first prescription.
Red skin syndrome is one of many potential side effects associated with topical steroids for eczema. It’s particularly prevalent among people who use high potency steroid creams over an extended period, and more severe in women than men.
It can cause red, itchy or burning skin during and after steroid treatments – an issue which often goes misdiagnosed as worsening eczema.
The Science Behind Red Skin Syndrome
Causes
If you have been taking topical steroids for your eczema or atopic dermatitis for an extended period, you may experience red skin syndrome (RSS) or topical steroid withdrawal.
This occurs when your body becomes less sensitive to the drug and requires higher dosages in order to achieve similar results as before.
Adults who have used high-potency topical steroids for prolonged periods or who frequently apply them on the face are most at risk for this condition. Furthermore, women who blush easily have been reported as being particularly susceptible.
This condition presents with redness, burning and stinging at the site of the rash. Additionally, it may cause swelling, hives or oozing at the affected area. Unfortunately, it can take months or years for these symptoms to go away completely.
Symptoms
Red skin syndrome is a commonly observed side effect of topical steroids like hydrocortisone or other creams used for treating eczema. This occurs when someone becomes addicted to these drugs and continues using them even after they no longer need them.
Symptoms are usually accompanied by pain, itching and burning sensations. You may also feel numbness and tingling throughout your entire body.
Red skin syndrome can sometimes be mistaken for an intense flare-up of eczema or an allergic reaction. That is why it’s essential to see a doctor to rule out other health conditions causing your redness.
Red skin syndrome is not a curable condition, but can be managed with medication and other treatments. Doctors may suggest taking colloidal oatmeal baths to relieve itching, taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief, and applying moisturizers such as jojoba oil or shea butter for moisture.
While full relief of symptoms may take some time, you can get your skin back to normal in no time!
Treatment
Red Skin Syndrome, also known as RSS or Redness and Swelling of the Skin after using topical corticosteroid creams for an extended period. It’s characterized by dilated blood capillaries which lead to inflamed and irritated skin with redness that looks like burning.
Topical steroids should not be used on anyone for more than one year. Women are most at risk, and it can occur anywhere on the body including genital and facial areas.
This condition can be painful and difficult to manage, but there are various treatments available for those affected by it. The best way to find relief is by speaking to a medical professional who can assist in managing your symptoms.
You can also try a gentle detoxification program, which will help reduce the amount of toxins in your system. This will lead to healthier skin cells being produced deep within the body that will then surface and heal.
Prevention
People with eczema or other itchy skin disorders can benefit from a good skin care routine to help prevent red skin syndrome. Use non-toxic cleanser, moisturizer and exfoliator to gently remove dead cells from your skin’s surface.
Another way to reduce your risk of RSS is to cut back on topical steroid application over time. This involves using a lower strength drug and only applying it once or twice per week, rather than every day.
Covering your hands in mittens or gloves can help protect them from licking or scratching the affected areas, which could lead to infection.
This is especially important for young children as they are at greater risk for staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome – a serious and sometimes life-threatening disease that manifests as fever, redness of the skin and blistering.
Most often, this requires hospitalization at an emergency department where doctors can administer antibiotic medicine, replenish fluids and provide skin care products.
How Is Red Skin Syndrome Different From Eczema
Red Skin Syndrome is different from eczema in that it is a condition that can occur as a result of using topical steroids for an extended period of time.
It is characterized by uncontrollable, spreading dermatitis and worsening skin inflammation, which requires a stronger topical steroid to get the same result as the first prescription.
Symptoms include redness, papules, pustules, burning sensations, tingling, itching, swelling, dry and/or peeling skin, pain, and facial flushing.
On the other hand, eczema is a condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It is a long-lasting (chronic) condition that tends to flare up sometimes and can occur at any age.
Eczema has a wide range of causes and manifestations, but it typically manifests as dry, itching skin or a rash.
Can Eczema Lead To Red Skin Syndrome
Eczema itself does not lead to Red Skin Syndrome, but the prolonged use of topical corticosteroids to treat eczema can lead to Red Skin Syndrome.
Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW), also known as Red Skin Syndrome, can occur when topical corticosteroids are inappropriately used or overused, then stopped.
Symptoms of Red Skin Syndrome include redness, papules, pustules, burning sensations, tingling, itching, swelling, dry and/or peeling skin, pain, and facial flushing.
It is important to use topical corticosteroids as directed by a healthcare professional and to consult with them if experiencing any adverse effects.
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