Occlusive tapes retain sweat, which helps restore moisture to the outer skin layer and prevent scaling. They also protect against abrasion and irritation. High-Potency Corticosteroid Tapes. The use of corticosteroids increases the risk for secondary infections, which may be prevented by changing the tapes every 12 hours. The use of corticosteroids under occlusive materials on large areas of psoriasis also increases the risk for adrenal insufficiency, a sometimes dangerous condition that occurs because the body loses its ability to produce natural steroids.
Children are especially susceptible.
Other Tape Treatments. One study applied a cream containing fluorouracil, an anti-skin cancer medication, underneath an occlusive tape. Improvement persisted beyond three months in five patients. All rights reserved.