Abstract

Mini Review

Fairness at a Cost: The Hidden Dangers of Steroid-Based Skin Lighteners

Manahil Mubeen*, Wania Bint-e-Shahzad, Laiba Azeem and Iflah Noor

Published: 11 September, 2025 | Volume 6 - Issue 2 | Pages: 077-079

The misuse of topical corticosteroids for skin whitening has grown to be a serious public health issue, notably in South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Easy over-the-counter availability, social pressures, and strong cosmetic marketing have all contributed to its widespread use, commonly without medical supervision. This practice has been linked to a number of dermatological problems, including skin atrophy, pigmentary diseases, tinea incognito, and an alarming increase in antifungal resistance to first-line medications like terbinafine. This article examines the incidence of overuse, the underlying pathophysiology, and the dermatological and psychosocial repercussions. Prescription control, improved medical and pharmacy curriculum, digital literacy programs, and appropriate telemedicine utilization are all necessary for effective interventions. Steroid abuse is more than just a cosmetic issue; it is a developing dermatological and antimicrobial resistance hazard that requires immediate, concerted action.

Read Full Article HTML DOI: 10.29328/journal.jcmhs.1001062 Cite this Article Read Full Article PDF

Keywords:

Steroid misuse; Skin lightening; Dermatophytosis / Tinea incognito; Antifungal resistance; Public health; Pigmentary disorders; Immunosuppression; Cosmetic marketing / Beauty standards; Over-the-counter drugs; Medical curriculum / Pharmacy training

References

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