What are example steroid creams to use for contact dermatitis on the arm?

From the Guidelines

For contact dermatitis on the arm, I recommend using low to medium potency topical corticosteroid creams such as hydrocortisone 1% (over-the-counter), triamcinolone 0.1%, or mometasone furoate 0.1% (prescription) as stated in the guidelines by the British Association of Dermatologists 1. These medications are effective in reducing inflammation, itching, and redness by suppressing the immune response in the skin. Some key points to consider when using these creams include:

• Apply a thin layer to the affected area twice daily for 1-2 weeks
• Use only the amount needed to cover the rash, and avoid applying to unaffected skin
• After applying, wash your hands unless they are also being treated
• If the rash doesn't improve within a week, or if it worsens, consult a healthcare provider
• Try to identify and avoid the trigger that caused the dermatitis, as steroid creams treat symptoms but don't address the underlying cause It's also important to note that for more severe cases, a stronger prescription option like fluocinonide 0.05% may be needed, and second-line treatment includes phototherapy and systemic immunomodulators such as methotrexate and mycophenolate mofetil as mentioned in the British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

Apply a thin film of Betamethasone Valerate Cream or Ointment to the affected skin areas one to three times a day. Triamcinolone acetonide cream is indicated for the relief of the inflammatory and pruritic manifestations of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses.

Example steroid creams to use for contact dermatitis on the arm are:

• Betamethasone Valerate Cream or Ointment 2
• Triamcinolone acetonide cream 3

From the Research

Example Steroid Creams for Contact Dermatitis

• Triamcinolone 0.1% is a mid-potency topical steroid that can be used to treat localized acute allergic contact dermatitis lesions 4
• Clobetasol 0.05% is a high-potency topical steroid that can be used to treat localized acute allergic contact dermatitis lesions 4
• Betamethasone 17-valerate 0.1% is a topical corticosteroid that can be used to treat atopic dermatitis and may also be effective for contact dermatitis 5

Treatment Considerations

• The choice of topical steroid cream depends on the severity and extent of the contact dermatitis 4
• For extensive areas of skin (greater than 20 percent), systemic steroid therapy may be required 4
• It is essential to avoid the suspected irritants or allergens and restore the skin barrier to reduce skin inflammation 6

Additional Options

• Topical calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus 0.1%, may be used as an alternative to topical corticosteroids 7, 5
• Antihistamines and emollients may also be used to reduce skin inflammation and itching 6, 8