Also called “Red Skin Syndrome”, red skin syndrome is a severe skin reaction that occurs after the sudden dermocorticoid stops, these cortisone creams prescribed to relieve eczema, dermatoses or psoriasis. When used over long periods, these treatments can lead to a form of skin dependence. And when the treatment stops without transition, the skin reacts violently. It is this phenomenon that we observe more and more on social networks, often in the form of overwhelming video testimonies.
Spectacular symptoms… and very painful
The face is often the first affected, with diffuse redness, intense burning sensations, as if the skin was on fire. The areas concerned can also become very dry, start to peel, ooze or swell. In some cases, eruptions extend to areas initially untreated, such as arms or torso. Physical pain is often accompanied by significant emotional distress, linked to aesthetic discomfort and the feeling of permanent discomfort. It is a real vicious circle.
Why does this syndrome trigger?
The problem comes from an overly brutal stop from cortisone creams. When using them too long or too frequently without medical follow -up, the skin gets used to it and adapts to them. The day we suddenly stop, the skin, deprived of anti-inflammatory action, enters reaction of rebound. The symptoms then do not reflect a relapse of eczema, but a reaction induced by weaning. This is precisely what makes syndrome difficult to diagnose, because it can be confused with an allergy thrust, rosacea or atypical dermatitis.
Food, the main cause of syndrome?
Does it play a role in the intensity of the syndrome?
Yes, and it is a dimension still too little discussed. Certain foods can accentuate background inflammation, worsen vasodilation and intensify redness or burning sensations. Spicy foods, such as chili or strong mustard, is particularly not recommended because they promote blood influx in the face. In the same way, very hot drinks – coffee, tea, hot chocolate – can accentuate skin redness with simple thermal effect. Alcohol is also to be avoided because it dilates blood vessels and aggravates the symptoms. Dairy products, foods rich in histamine (such as strawberries, tomatoes or refined cheeses) as well as fatty, fried or ultra-transformed dishes also maintain inflammatory land.
How to avoid this situation?
Everything is based on how we use cortisone creams. Dermocorticoids should never be used continuously over long periods, nor in large quantities without medical supervision. It is strongly recommended to scrupulously respect the dosages, to gradually interrupt the treatment when possible, and not to exceed two tubes per month in the same area. The alternation with moisturizers and emollients is essential to maintain the skin barrier and limit the frequency of thrusts. If in doubt, only a dermatologist can advise you on a secure and adapted weaning strategy.
What if you have the first signs?
The signs of alert include redness who do not disappear, sensations of burning or tingling exacerbated, a skin which suddenly becomes very sensitive, dry or oozing, especially after stopping a cortison treatment. In this case, it is crucial not to take over the cream of your own. A dermatologist can make a diagnosis, differentiate a relapse of eczema from a real withdrawal syndrome, and adjust your care routine. In some cases, psychological or nutritional support can also be offered to support this delicate period.
Red skin syndrome remains rare, but it is real and very invalidating when it is triggered. It mainly affects people who have used cortisone prolonged or unsuitable, and manifests itself during a sudden stop of treatment. Although often poorly understood, this phenomenon deserves to be recognized, diagnosed and seriously taken care of. In parallel with a good skin routine, an anti-inflammatory diet can greatly help soothe symptoms.
