Topical Medications and
How to Use Them Correctly

Topical Medications and How to Use Them Correctly

Topical medications are used to treat skin conditions and many types of arthritis.

They come in many forms such as balms, creams, gels, oils, lotions, patches, and also ointments.

There are topical analgesics for pain, and topical anesthetics, topical medications to control itching and topical antibiotics.

There are topical medications used to treat psoriasis and those that are steroids.

Topical medications can have side effects and using them properly can help you to minimize the risk for side effects.

Creams and ointments:

Apply these in a thin layer and then massage them into the affected skin area usually one to four times each day.

Usually the doctor will tell you to use the cream or ointment until the rash is gone.

Skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis will benefit from using the topical medication such as a topical steroid in order to prevent recurrences.

Topical steroids are known for side effects so discuss frequency of use with your doctor.

There are different strengths of topical medications and areas of the body such as where skin touches skin like in our groin, rectal and armpit areas the topical steroids we use there should be of a lower potency.

Infants and young children have sensitive skin that absorbs topical medications more readily than adult skin so they need to also have a lower potency topical steroid.

How to apply a topical medication:

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You should wash your hands after gathering the supplies such as the topical medication, soap, and a clean, dry towel.

Always gently wash the affected area of the skin with warm water and soap before applying any topical medication. Pat the skin dry after washing it.

If you are using a spray topical medication be sure to shake the can before applying.

If you are using a lotion, it should also be shaken before using it.

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Read all directions before using the topical medication. Apply the medication as directed to the cleaned, dry skin.

Be careful not to inhale or get any of it in your eyes as you are handling the medication.

Do not cover the area after applying the topical medication unless instructed by your doctor to do so.

Replace any cap to the medication, if any and then be sure to wash your hands.

Make sure that you only use the prescribed amount and that you have followed the recommended directions carefully. Never use more medication than prescribed. Topical medications can be overdosed just like other kinds of medications.

Be sure to not touch your eyes with your fingers after applying the topical medication as you can get the medication that may be leftover on your fingertips into your eyes.

Never put topical medications into your mouth. Make sure that all medications including topical ones are out of the reach of children so they do not put them into their mouths. A topical medication should never be inhaled.