Abstract
Topical corticosteroids are considered of the most used drugs by dermatologist to treat many of dermatological conditions. The key explanation for abuse and the production of side effects is the availability of potent topical corticosteroids at a low cost over the counter. To our knowledge, there is no study conducted in Riyadh looking for commonest adverse effect of topical corticosteroids misuse. Across sectional study was done on 459 females from Riyadh city, KSA, where data were collected using a pre-designed self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire included items about participants' characters, reasons of using topical corticosteroids, types, duration and frequency of application of topical corticosteroids used, and the presence of side effects. Consent obtained prior to the collection of data stressing privacy and the right of participants to withdraw from the study at any time. More than 46.1% of the participants were 21 to 30 years of age. Skin whitening was the key justification for using topical corticosteroids. A rise in hair pressure (22%) accompanied by skin thinning (21.3%) was the most common adverse effect. There was a significant statistical relationship between age and justification for usage and a significant statistical relationship was found between marital status and motives of using topical corticosteroids. Misuse of topical corticosteroids is prevalent among females in Riyadh for several reasons, the most important of which is skin whitening and lightening and the most common side effect was increase in hair intensity.