What effect do corticosteroids have on the skin when used long-term?

Corticosteroids, when used long-term, can lead to skin thinning, also known as atrophy, as well as other side effects. This is primarily due to their anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit cell turnover and reduce collagen production in the skin. Over time, the skin becomes more fragile, thinner, and more susceptible to bruising and tearing.

Long-term use of corticosteroids can also disrupt the natural barrier function of the skin, which can lead to other issues such as increased susceptibility to infections or even the development of steroid-induced rosacea. While corticosteroids are effective for treating certain skin conditions in the short term, their prolonged use can result in undesirable changes in skin structure and integrity, highlighting the importance of managing their application duration and dosage carefully.

In contrast, other effects listed, such as improving skin thickness, enhancing moisture retention, or encouraging skin elasticity, are not typical outcomes of long-term corticosteroid use and can actually be detrimental to skin health.