Steroid Alternatives

Hi, folks.

I have a weird skin spot on my leg that seems like one of those things that would go away in a day if I could use hydrocortisone cream on it, but I can't. In addition to the usual steroids-contraindicated-with-Lyme thing, I also have a retinal condition that makes any kind of steroid - even a single use of topical hydrocortisone - something that even regular doctors say I can't do.

So does any one have ideas for herbs or other compounds that might act similarly - to quell the immune response, but without stimulating cortisol?

The spot is slightly raised and irritated by any friction, so I think part of why it won't go away is my continued need to be clothed each day. Antifungal and antibacterial treatments have no effect. It's not itchy but will burn if it's irritated. It started off bilaterally when a pair of new jeans irritated my legs badly last winter one day when my skin was very dry. One side healed, but the other is stubbornly not healing. [Shrug.]

if antimicrobials don't seem to do much - maybe try something highly anti-inflammatory topically - like maybe turmeric
i know its used for wound healing - bit messy - but could be worth a go

Sometime sunshine helps

A lotion with witch hazel might help.

I was diagnosed with incurable skin lichen planus last month. Steroid creams cause extreme anxiety. Thank you for sharing your ideas on what may help.

Patty