Natural Alternatives to Steroids for Eczema & Psoriasis | Risks of Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW)

Natural Alternatives to Steroids for Eczema & Psoriasis | Risks of Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW)

Living with eczema or psoriasis can feel like a rollercoaster—one day your skin’s calm, the next you’re dealing with angry flare-ups. For years, topical steroids have been the go-to treatment. But growing awareness around topical steroid withdrawal (TSW), covered widely in UK media, means more people are looking for gentler, long-term options.

That’s where barrier-nourishing products like our Skin Stuff Intensive Body Balm come in—designed to soothe, protect, and support your skin without the risks linked to steroid overuse.

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The Risks of Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW)

TSW, sometimes called “red skin syndrome,” can happen after prolonged or frequent steroid use. Symptoms include burning, redness, oozing, swelling, and severe itch.

UK regulators (the MHRA) now warn of these rare but serious risks and have introduced clearer labelling for steroid strengths. Meanwhile, The Guardian, ITV News, and The Independent have all shared stories of people left housebound or struggling with work and sleep due to TSW.

Why Choose a Natural Balm Instead?

Natural remedies don’t “cure” eczema or psoriasis, but they do support your skin barrier and make flare-ups easier to manage day-to-day. Here’s why many people prefer them:

  • Barrier support first: Emollients and occlusives keep skin hydrated and less reactive.

  • Soothe irritation: Our Skin Stuff Intensive Body Balm is formulated to calm inflammation, reduce itching and soreness, and help skin recover when it’s broken or fragile.

  • Gentle for long-term use: No risk of skin thinning or withdrawal when used daily.

  • Complementary care: Fits into a holistic routine alongside professional treatment plans.

  • Try Skin Stuff Intensive Body Balm

Steroid Creams vs Skin Stuff Intensive Body Balm

Feature Steroid Creams Skin Stuff Intensive Body Balm
Primary role Suppress inflammation in acute flares Reduce inflammation, soothe itching & soreness, support healing of broken skin
Risks Skin thinning, rebound flares, TSW (with long use) Possible mild irritation (always patch-test), no systemic risks
Safe for daily, long-term use? ❌ Not recommended ✅ Yes
Best for Short bursts to control severe flare-ups (under medical advice) Everyday maintenance & soothing dry, itchy patches
How it feels Can sting, thin, or dry skin over time Rich, nourishing, protective

A Gentle, Steroid-Sparing Routine

Here’s how to build a skincare routine that puts your skin barrier first:

  1. Cleanse softly → short, lukewarm showers or baths.

  2. Apply Skin Stuff Intensive Body Balm → while skin is still slightly damp (“soak and seal” method) to trap moisture, calm irritation, and help repair cracked or sore skin.

  3. Use daily, not just during flares → consistency matters more than strength.

  4. Work with your GP/dermatologist → keep a clear plan for when steroid rescue might be needed.

Tip: Explore our full Sensitive Skin Collection for more fragrance-free, barrier-friendly options.

Try Skin Stuff Intensive Body Balm

What Our Customers Say

💬 “I was nervous about cutting back on steroid creams, but this balm has been a game-changer. It keeps my eczema calm and my skin doesn’t feel sore all the time anymore.” – Sarah, verified customer

💬 “The first thing I noticed was the itching stopped almost straight away. My elbows and knees are finally healing without constant scratching.” – James, verified customer

💬 “My son has psoriasis and his skin gets cracked and painful. This balm has really helped soothe the broken patches and he says it doesn’t sting like other creams.” – Laura, verified customer

💬 “I love that I can use it every day without worrying about side effects. It’s thick, comforting, and makes my skin feel protected.” – Anita, verified customer

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Real Voices, Real Stories (TSW in the Media)

  • “It felt like my skin was on fire.” — Guardian feature on living through TSW.

  • “I became housebound during withdrawal.” — covered by ITV News.

  • Independent reports highlight young adults struggling to work or study during TSW.

These stories reflect why so many are rethinking long-term steroid reliance and seeking supportive, natural alternatives.

The Bottom Line

Steroid creams still have their place—they can be very effective for calming severe flares when used short-term under medical advice. But for everyday care, more people are turning to natural solutions like Skin Stuff Intensive Body Balm, which not only locks in hydration but also helps soothe inflammation, ease itching and soreness, and support healing for broken or fragile skin.

It’s about balance: targeted medical support when you need it, gentle barrier care every day.

FAQs

Is TSW officially recognised?
Yes. The MHRA acknowledges it and UK media has widely reported on patient experiences.

Can a balm replace steroids completely?
Not always—eczema and psoriasis are medical conditions. But balms can reduce your reliance on steroids for daily care.

Should I stop steroids suddenly?
No—always speak with your GP/dermatologist about a taper plan if you’re worried about TSW.

👉 Ready to try a barrier-first approach? Discover our Skin Stuff Intensive Body Balm and explore more in our Skin Stuff Collection.

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