Maseru, May 06 — Health experts are raising alarm over the growing misuse of steroid creams, which are increasingly being used without proper medical guidance.
Pharmacist, Miss Julia Matsanyane, says many people are drawn to these creams because of their fast-acting results. She explains that steroid creams are medically prescribed to treat various skin conditions such as eczema, rashes, and inflammation, offering relief by reducing redness, itching, and swelling.
She further highlights that some individuals are now using these creams to beautify themselves, particularly for skin lightening and achieving a smoother complexion. While the short-term results may appear appealing, Miss Matsanyane cautions that this practice is unsafe when done without professional supervision.
Miss Matsanyane also pointed out that although the effects on the face may initially look good, the creams do not evenly affect other parts of the body due to differences in skin type. She explained that facial skin absorbs these components differently compared to the skin on the hands and feet. As a result, users may experience uneven skin tone, where the face becomes noticeably lighter while the hands and feet remain darker.
She notes that the effectiveness of these creams has led to widespread overuse and misuse. She warns that prolonged and unsupervised use can result in serious health complications, including visible blood vessels, worsening skin conditions, permanent skin thinning, and steroid dependence.
She adds that users may also experience increased vulnerability to infections and, in some cases, hormonal imbalances due to excessive absorption into the body.
Miss Matsanyane has made a plea to the public to stop misusing steroid creams, emphasising the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before use to avoid long-term side effects.
She urges individuals to prioritise their health and use medication responsibly, warning that what may seem like a quick solution could lead to lasting damage.
Ends/KP/tl
