Steroid-Induced Folliculitis: Causes, Risks, and What to Do

When you take steroid-induced folliculitis, a skin condition triggered by corticosteroid use that mimics acne but stems from inflamed hair follicles. Also known as steroid acne, it shows up as small red bumps or pustules—usually on the face, chest, or back—and it’s not caused by dirt or oil, but by the medication itself. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue. It’s a direct side effect of how steroids change your skin’s natural balance, especially when taken orally, injected, or applied long-term as creams or inhalers.

People using corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory drugs like prednisone, prednisolone, or inhaled fluticasone used for asthma, allergies, or autoimmune conditions are most at risk. Even short courses can trigger it. The bumps look like regular acne, but they don’t respond to typical acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. That’s because the root cause isn’t clogged pores—it’s inflammation from the steroid altering how your skin cells and bacteria interact. You might also notice this happening if you’ve recently switched from a topical steroid cream to an oral one, or if you’ve been on high doses for weeks.

Steroid side effects, a broad category of reactions ranging from weight gain and mood swings to skin changes and immune suppression are well-documented, but folliculitis is often overlooked. It’s not dangerous on its own, but it can be frustrating—and if you treat it like regular acne, you might make it worse. Some people try harsh scrubs or antibiotics, but those rarely help. The real fix? Often, it’s time and adjusting the steroid dose under medical supervision. In some cases, switching to a different steroid or adding a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory helps. And if you’re using steroids for a chronic condition, your doctor might recommend monitoring your skin as closely as your blood pressure or liver enzymes.

What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just a list of treatments. It’s a practical look at how steroids like prednisolone and other corticosteroids affect your body beyond the intended use. You’ll see real comparisons between steroid alternatives, how to spot early signs of skin reactions, and what to ask your doctor before starting or stopping treatment. Some posts dive into how these drugs interact with other medications, while others show how people manage side effects without giving up the benefits. This isn’t about fear—it’s about awareness. If you’re on steroids and noticing bumps, you’re not alone. And there are clear, science-backed steps to take next.