Are there topical steroid addicts?

Yes. These patients often present with a mild dermatitis that respond well to topical steroids. However, when the topical steroid is discontinued, the symptoms quickly return and are more profound. Thus, the patient is reluctant to discontinue the steroid use despite the perpetuation of the syndrome.

The topical steroid addiction syndrome is a frustrating side effect that occurs most commonly on the face or anogenital skin. Topical moisturizers, soaps, sunscreens, and makeup are poorly tolerated. Patients complain of burning and stinging as a result of thinning of the stratum corneum and epidermis. Treatment is discontinuation of the topical steroid medication; the patient should be warned that the symptoms will flare and may take weeks or even months to completely clear.