When should the application of steroids to the same site be stopped in the treatment of psoriasis?

In the treatment of psoriasis, the application of topical steroids to the same site is generally recommended to be stopped after a specific duration to prevent potential side effects, particularly skin atrophy and tachyphylaxis, which is a reduced response to the medication after continuous use.

When using potent topical corticosteroids, the guideline often suggests that continuous application should not exceed 4 to 6 weeks without reassessment, especially on sensitive areas of the skin. After this period, it's critical to evaluate the necessity of continuing treatment, as ongoing use can lead to thinning of the skin and other complications.

In contexts like this, stopping the application after 6 weeks balances the need for effective treatment of psoriasis with the potential risks associated with prolonged steroid use. Subsequently, this period allows time for either a break in therapy or rotation to a different treatment approach, which can help mitigate side effects while still addressing the condition effectively.

Therefore, stopping after 8 weeks, while considered in some contexts, may pose a higher risk of skin complications compared to the more ideal practice of reviewing treatment after a 6-week period.