The use of topical steroids in children.

Topical steroids have been used with great success since the early 1950s. Knowledge of the mode of action, development of tests of potency, and manipulation of side chains have added to our understanding of these agents. Vehicles influence their rate of absorption. In the last three decades, topical and systemic side effects have been recognized with their inappropriate use. These side effects are seldom seen in children and should not preclude the correct use of topical steroids in inflammatory disorders of the skin, particularly atopic dermatitis.