Skip to content

Glucocorticoids (Corticosteroids)

3

Safety score · 0–100

Avoid

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

Glucocorticoids (corticosteroids) is a cosmetic ingredient. Exercise caution due to limited available safety data.

Glucocorticoids such as hydrocortisone, betamethasone, and dexamethasone are pharmaceutical agents with potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. EU Regulation 1223/2009 Annex II prohibits their use in cosmetic products. Topical corticosteroid misuse in cosmetics can cause skin thinning (atrophy), striae formation, telangiectasia, perioral dermatitis, and systemic absorption leading to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression. Long-term cosmetic use could lead to steroid dependence and rebound dermatitis upon discontinuation.

Known concerns

  • EU Annex II banned - pharmaceutical agents
  • Skin atrophy with prolonged use
  • Systemic absorption and HPA axis suppression
  • Steroid dependence and rebound dermatitis
  • Perioral dermatitis risk

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Check your shelf

Find Glucocorticoids (Corticosteroids) in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains Glucocorticoids (Corticosteroids) and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.