Fast answer
Steroid creams are commonly prescribed to help reduce inflammation during hand eczema flare-ups. They are different from moisturisers, which help support the skin barrier and reduce dryness. Many people use both as part of their treatment plan, following the advice of their GP or dermatologist.
For a complete guide to managing hand eczema, visit our Hand Eczema Treatment page. You may also find our Hand Eczema Hub helpful for understanding symptoms, causes and long-term care.
What you'll learn in this article
In this guide you'll learn:
• What steroid creams do.
• How steroid creams differ from moisturisers.
• How long they're usually used for.
• Can you use moisturiser alongside steroid cream?
• When to seek medical advice.
What is a steroid cream?
Steroid creams, also known as topical corticosteroids, are prescription or pharmacy treatments used to reduce inflammation during eczema flare-ups.
When hand eczema becomes red, swollen, itchy or uncomfortable, a healthcare professional may recommend a steroid cream to help settle the inflammation.
These creams are intended for short-term treatment during flare-ups rather than continuous everyday use.
Steroid cream and moisturiser are not the same
Many people assume that steroid creams replace moisturisers, but they actually have different roles.
Steroid creams are used to reduce inflammation.
Moisturisers help support the skin barrier and reduce dryness.
Even while using prescribed treatment, many people continue applying a gentle moisturiser every day to help keep their skin hydrated.
If you're looking for a moisturiser suitable for sensitive hands, our guide to the Best Cream for Hand Eczema explains what features to look for.
How are steroid creams used?
Your GP, dermatologist or pharmacist will advise you on exactly how to use your prescribed treatment.
The instructions may include:
• Which areas to treat.
• How often to apply it.
• How long to continue treatment.
Following these instructions is important, as using more than recommended will not necessarily improve results.
If you're unsure how to use your medication, always ask your healthcare professional for advice.
Can you use moisturiser as well?
Yes.
Moisturisers and steroid creams are often used together because they perform different jobs.
Many people continue using moisturiser regularly throughout the day, particularly after washing their hands, while using steroid treatment during a flare-up.
A simple skincare routine often helps support the skin between flare-ups as well.
Our guide to Overnight Hand Eczema Treatment explains how applying moisturiser before bed can become part of a consistent evening routine.
How long are steroid creams usually used?
The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of the flare-up and the type of steroid prescribed.
Some people only need treatment for a few days, while others may require a slightly longer course.
Always follow the advice given by the healthcare professional who prescribed your treatment rather than continuing indefinitely.
Can steroid creams cure hand eczema?
No.
Steroid creams help control inflammation during flare-ups, but they do not cure eczema.
Because hand eczema often comes and goes over time, ongoing skincare remains important even after a flare-up has settled.
Keeping your hands moisturised and reducing exposure to common triggers may help support long-term skin comfort.
Reducing future flare-ups
Once inflammation improves, many people focus on protecting their skin barrier to reduce the likelihood of future flare-ups.
Helpful habits include:
• Moisturising regularly.
• Wearing gloves when using cleaning products.
• Avoiding very hot water.
• Choosing gentle hand cleansers.
• Protecting your hands during cold weather.
Our guide to Preventing Hand Eczema Flare-Ups explores these habits in more detail.
Are there any side effects?
Like all medicines, steroid creams can have side effects if they are not used correctly.
Using them exactly as prescribed helps reduce these risks.
If you notice unexpected changes to your skin or have concerns about your treatment, speak to your GP, dermatologist or pharmacist.
When should you seek medical advice?
Arrange a review with your healthcare professional if:
• Your hand eczema is becoming increasingly painful.
• Your skin appears infected.
• Deep cracks are not healing.
• Your symptoms continue to worsen despite treatment.
• You're unsure whether your current treatment is working.
A healthcare professional can review your treatment plan and recommend any changes that may be appropriate.
Our approach to everyday hand care
At Bragan Skincare, we've developed our Atopic Cream for people with dry, sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
While it doesn't replace prescribed steroid treatment or treat eczema itself, it helps hydrate the skin and support the natural skin barrier as part of a consistent daily skincare routine.
Many customers choose to use it between flare-ups or alongside the advice provided by their healthcare professional.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use moisturiser with steroid cream?
Yes. Many people use both because they have different roles. Steroid creams reduce inflammation, while moisturisers help support the skin barrier and reduce dryness.
Should I stop moisturising while using steroid cream?
No. Moisturising is usually an important part of caring for hand eczema, although you should always follow the advice given by your healthcare professional.
Can I use steroid cream every day?
Steroid creams are generally intended for short-term use during flare-ups. Always use them exactly as prescribed.
Will steroid cream cure hand eczema?
No. Steroid creams help control inflammation but do not cure eczema. Ongoing skincare remains important.
What should I do if my hand eczema isn't improving?
If your symptoms aren't improving or are becoming worse despite treatment, speak to your GP or dermatologist for further assessment.
Final thoughts
Steroid creams can play an important role in managing hand eczema flare-ups, but they work best as part of a broader skincare routine. Following your healthcare professional's advice, moisturising regularly and protecting your skin barrier may help keep your hands more comfortable over the long term.
To continue building your hand eczema routine, explore our guides on Best Cream for Hand Eczema, Overnight Hand Eczema Treatment, Preventing Hand Eczema Flare-Ups and Natural Hand Eczema Remedies.
