Bengaluru: Steroid Cream Linked to Mental Health Crisis

How many times have we bought face creams influenced by celebrities or friends’ advice? Quite a few times, right? We often apply them without any medical supervision. Doctors now express that some of these creams may trigger anxiety and mood swings. A recent case in Bengaluru just reinforced this concern.

When Skincare Turns Risky

A 22-year-old woman visited ESIC Model Hospital, Bengaluru, with complaints of suicidal thoughts. Doctors initially suspected a psychiatric disorder and began treating her accordingly. But what surprised them was the actual trigger—a topical steroid cream she had been using to treat mild pigmentation on her face.

She had bought the cream without medical consultation and continued applying it unsupervised. Problems started when she abruptly stopped. She experienced acne flare-ups, which led to intense mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and eventually suicidal thoughts.

Doctors later confirmed that prolonged misuse of such steroid creams had caused neurochemical and psychological effects in her case.

Steroid Creams Becoming a Dangerous Trend

Dermatologists report this is becoming increasingly common. Creams designed for short-term use in conditions like eczema or dermatitis are now being misused by young people as quick fixes for dark spots or pigmentation. These should only be used under medical supervision.

How Do Steroid Creams Affect the Body

Topical steroid creams are anti-inflammatories meant to reduce inflammation when prescribed for specific, short-term use. Prolonged use disrupts the skin’s natural barrier, leading to thinning, increased risk of infections, and irritation. This condition is now being called Topical Steroid Dependent or Damaged Face (TSDF).

Dr. Girish MS, Head of Dermatology at ESIC Model Hospital, told The New Indian Express,

The problem isn’t just skin-deep. Prolonged use can also cause hormonal imbalances, leading to anxiety, mood swings, emotional instability, and in extreme cases, suicidal thoughts—as seen in this patient.

Even minor changes in appearance can trigger panic and shame. Patients avoid social events, lose sleep from stress, and slowly slip into mental health crises.

Steroid Absorption Can Be Fatal

In some severe cases, steroids may get absorbed into the bloodstream, triggering Cushing’s Syndrome, a hormonal disorder linked with weight gain, mood swings, and systemic damage. While the cream may clear acne temporarily, it rarely treats the root cause.

How to Spot a Steroid Cream

Doctors shared some simple ways to identify these products:

• Look for ingredients like betamethasone, hydrocortisone, mometasone, clobetasol, etc.

• Check for labels that mention corticosteroids or anti-inflammatories.

• Ingredients ending in “-ate” may signal steroids.

• Avoid creams that promise instant fairness or acne cure without disclosing ingredients.

Are Social Media Trends Fueling the Crisis

Doctors say social media plays a big role in this trend. Many self-proclaimed skincare influencers promote such products heavily, especially targeting the 18–25 age group. Young users often start using them without checking side effects. Many now suffer not just from damaged skin but from emotional dependency and mental health challenges caused by these creams.

What Should You Do

Always consult a dermatologist before using a new skincare product. And if you are already using such creams, don’t stop abruptly; speak to an expert to stop their use gradually.

It’s time to avoid following online trends blindly. Your skin and mind deserve better care.

(Rh/Pooja Bansal/MSM/SE)