My doctor prescribed topical steroids for my eczema, but I am concerned about using them?

Q:  My doctor prescribed topical steroids for my eczema, but I am concerned about using them. Any suggestions?

A:  Topical corticosteroids are often the only reasonable therapy for controlling eczema. They are very effective and, if used properly, very safe. A major reason for failure is when there is an inappropriate prescription of low-potency steroids and the starting and stopping of regimens that never really control and stabilize the inflammation.