Although ointments with high concentrations of corticosteroids may get similar results, they can have unacceptable side effects.
Some people have tissue paper thin skin and bruise easily from chronic corticosteroid use.
The face is a special concern because it's most susceptible to steroid side effects. Tacrolimus, a drug that can suppress the immune system when given intravenously, was used as a topical skin treatment in this clinical trial involving 180 children, ages 7-16 at 18 centers throughout the United States. Children were supplied with one of three different concentrations of tacrolimus ointment. Improvement or clearing of the condition ranged from 67-70 percent of the children using the tacrolimus ointment, compared to 38 percent that had ointment with no medication. In topical form the medication appears safe, according to the study, except for a minor burning sensation of the skin that disappears after about four days.