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What are steroids and what is their role in cosmetic products?

Steroids are a word most often associated with sportspeople, athletes, and bodybuilding; however, these organic compounds also play a very important role in the cosmetics industry. First, let’s try to understand what steroids really are and how they work.

Steroids: Definition and Types

Steroids are lipophilic organic compounds based on four fused cycloalkane rings. They are essential components of the human body and play an important role in various biological functions.

Steroids are divided into several categories:

Corticosteroids: These are steroids produced by the adrenal cortex. They are divided into glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. Glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, regulate metabolism and have an anti-inflammatory effect, which is why they are often used to treat inflammatory skin conditions. To learn more about what cortisol is and how it affects the skin, read here.
Sex steroids: These are hormones that regulate sexual functions, such as estrogens, progesterones, and androgens.
Anabolic steroids: These are synthetic compounds that help increase muscle mass and strength. They are most commonly associated with athletes who aim to quickly improve their physical performance.
Vitamin D derivatives: These are steroids that help regulate calcium concentration in the blood and are important for bone health.

Steroids in the cosmetics industry

Returning to the role of steroids in cosmetic products, it is important to emphasize that steroids, especially corticosteroids, are valued for their anti-inflammatory effect. This means that they can reduce skin redness, swelling, and pain, which is particularly important in treating skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis.

Steroids are often included in face creams, ointments, or body lotions intended for topical use on affected areas. They help not only reduce inflammation but also suppress the immune response that can cause skin problems.

Why do cosmetics manufacturers include steroids?

The answer is simple: effectiveness. Some people struggle with skin problems that can be very uncomfortable and painful. Steroids can quickly and effectively reduce these symptoms. In addition, they can be especially beneficial for those who have chronic skin conditions that frequently recur.

Use of steroids in treating skin problems

Eczema: This is one of the most common skin conditions that steroids can help treat. Eczema causes dryness, itching, and redness of the skin. Steroids help reduce these symptoms, thereby providing relief to the patient. More information about what eczema is can be found here.

Psoriasis: This is an autoimmune condition in which the skin produces too many cells, and thick, rough plaques appear on the skin’s surface. Steroids can help reduce skin thickness and redness. For more details on what psoriasis is, read here.

Dermatitis: Steroids can also be used to treat contact dermatitis, which occurs due to an allergic reaction or irritation. To learn more about contact dermatitis and other common allergic skin reactions, their causes, and how to manage them, read here.

The use of steroids in the cosmetics industry opens the door to advanced skincare solutions. Of course, it is important to be well informed and cautious, but the benefits they provide are clear.