What is the list of topical corticosteroids (steroids) in order from least to most potent?

From the Guidelines

Topical corticosteroids are classified from least to most potent based on their anti-inflammatory strength, ranging from Class VII (least potent) to Class I (most potent). The classification of topical corticosteroids from least to most potent is as follows:

• Class VII (least potent): hydrocortisone 0.5-1%
• Class VI: desonide 0.05% and triamcinolone 0.025%
• Class V: triamcinolone 0.1%, mometasone furoate 0.1%, and fluocinolone 0.025%
• Class IV: fluocinolone 0.025%, triamcinolone 0.5%, and flurandrenolide 0.05%
• Class III: fluocinonide 0.05%, betamethasone valerate 0.1%, and mometasone furoate 0.1% ointment
• Class II: amcinonide 0.1%, desoximetasone 0.25%, and fluocinonide 0.1%
• Class I (most potent): clobetasol propionate 0.05%, betamethasone dipropionate 0.05% in optimized vehicle, and halobetasol propionate 0.05% 1. When using topical steroids, it's essential to match the potency to the condition being treated and the body area involved, as the potency affects both efficacy and risk of side effects such as skin thinning, striae, and adrenal suppression with prolonged use of high-potency products 1. Lower potency steroids are safer for sensitive areas like the face, genitals, and skin folds, while higher potency steroids may be needed for thick, lichenified skin or resistant conditions 1. The efficacy rates of topical corticosteroids vary widely, ranging from 41% to 92%, depending on the class and potency of the steroid, as well as the disease severity and location 1. It is crucial to choose a corticosteroid with appropriate potency and vehicle based on the disease severity, disease location, patient preference, and the age of the patient 1.

From the Research

Topical Corticosteroids Potency

• The potency of topical corticosteroids can be classified into several categories, including low, moderate, high, very high, and super-high potency 2.
• However, the exact list of topical corticosteroids in order from least to most potent is not provided in the given studies.
• Some studies mention the comparison of different potencies of topical corticosteroids, such as mild, moderate, potent, and very potent 3.
• The potency of topical corticosteroids is an important factor in determining their effectiveness and potential side effects, with higher potency corticosteroids generally being more effective but also having a higher risk of side effects 2, 3.

Classification of Topical Corticosteroids

• Topical corticosteroids can be classified based on their strength, with classes ranging from I (super-high potency) to VII (low potency) 2.
• However, the specific classification system is not provided in the given studies.
• The choice of topical corticosteroid depends on various factors, including the diagnosis, skin location, and individual patient characteristics 4, 5.

Examples of Topical Corticosteroids

• Some examples of topical corticosteroids mentioned in the studies include hydrocortisone hemisuccinate, triamcinolone, and betamethasone valerate 6.
• However, the potency of these specific corticosteroids is not provided in the given studies.
• The formulation of topical corticosteroids can also vary, with options including ointments, creams, lotions, gels, foams, oils, solutions, and shampoos 2.