Guidelines for using superpotent topical steroids.

Superpotent topical steroids used to treat psoriasis and steroid-responsive dermatoses may produce local cutaneous side effects, including atrophy, steroid acne, perioral dermatitis, hypopigmentation, hypertrichosis and superinfections. Suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis may be one of the systemic side effects. Superpotent topical steroids should not be used under occlusion, in flexural areas, on the face and in children. The total amount used per week and the duration of treatment should be carefully monitored.