Eczema is a skin disease characterized by localized inflammation in a specific area of the body. There are several treatments available to alleviate its symptoms. Cortisone is one of the ingredients commonly used in skincare products. What are its effects on eczema?
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What are the effects of cortisone on eczema?
Summary
- How does eczema manifest itself?
- How does cortisone act on eczema?
- How to use cortisone creams to combat eczema?
- Sources
Published September 22, 2023,
updated on November 19, 2024,
by
Pauline, Head of Scientific Communication
—
5 min read
How does eczema manifest itself?
Eczema is an inflammatory skin disease that progresses in flare-ups. It is very common, especially in children and infants, and is the second most common reason for dermatological consultation , following acne. Although considered a benign disease, eczema is associated with numerous bothersome symptoms and has an impact on the daily lives of those who suffer from it.
Lesions : Red and inflammatory, eczema lesions appear during flare-ups. They are often accompanied by small vesicles filled with clear fluid that become weepy, either naturally or due to scratching. The skin then thickens, a process referred to as lichenification.
Itching : During flare-ups, eczema causes significant itching that impacts the life of the affected individual. Irritability, sleep disturbances, fatigue... are all consequences of the itchiness.
Skin dryness : Atopic skin is constantly very dry, due to its inability to retain water. This is referred to as xerosis. The skin feels tight and uncomfortable, even outside of flare-ups. Certain external factors such as prolonged contact with water or the use of unsuitable products exacerbate xerosis.
How does cortisone act on eczema?
Cortisone is a molecule whose chemical structure is very similar to cortisol, a hormone naturally produced in the body by the adrenal glands. Cortisol plays a predominant role in the regulation of sugar and carbohydrate metabolism and the release of energy. Cortisone is considered a medication and is dispensed by prescription. It is taken orally in cases of adrenal insufficiency, injected into joints to treat rheumatic issues, and applied topically to combat skin inflammation... Its uses are numerous. As for eczema, cortisone has various effects:
Cortisone is anti-inflammatory.
Cortisone works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors, which belong to the steroid receptor family. This binding results in the inhibition of the production of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukins-1 and 6 (IL-1 and IL-6) and the tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α). This helps to reduce the inflammatory symptoms of eczema such as redness of the patches and itching.
Cortisone is immunosuppressive.
Cortisone also has immunosuppressive properties, meaning it is capable of reducing the body's immune response. Individuals with eczema often secrete significant amounts of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) in response to environmental allergens. The topical application of corticosteroids can help mitigate this phenomenon. Specifically, cortisone inhibits the activation of T lymphocytes, which play a major role in the adaptive immune response and trigger the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Thus, it reduces the body's inflammatory response when the skin comes into contact with allergens that cause an eczematous reaction.
How to use cortisone creams to combat eczema?
Creams based on cortisone, known as topical corticosteroids, are one of the most frequently prescribed treatments by dermatologists for eczema. They have recognized effects against this condition and alleviate its symptoms. Topical corticosteroids can be used from the age of one year. There are several types of topical corticosteroids, the use of which depends on the location of the eczema patches and the age of the patient.
Regarding their use, cortisone creams are used once a day and only during eczema flare-ups. However, dermatologists advise not to wait until the flare-up reaches its peak to start using them, but rather to apply them at the onset of the flare-up. The most important thing is to follow your dermatologist's recommendations to avoid side effects. Between eczema flare-ups, it is recommended to hydrate and nourish your skin with a standard emollient to restore its hydrolipidic film and combat xerosis (dry skin).
Sources
FONACIER L. & al. Treatment of Eczema: Corticosteroids and Beyond. Clinical reviews in allergy and immunology (2016).
GUTTMAN-YASKY E. & al. Use of systemic corticosteroids for atopic dermatitis: International Eczema Council consensus statement. The British journal of dermatology (2018).
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