Steroid creams come in different strengths and include such brand names as Elocon, Clobetasol, Ultravate, Cyclocort, Descort, Pramasone, and Tridesilon. If the suffix of a drug ends in “-ate,” “-one” or the word “cort” is in it, it most likely contains a steroid or steroid derivative. Other names may be used though.

Although still not completely understood, steroids may be helpful in repigmenting the skin, particularly if started early in the condition and where only a few patches or spots need to be treated. Corticosteroids are a group of drugs similar to the hormones produced by the adrenal glands (such as cortisone). Doctors often prescribe a mild topical corticosteroid cream for children under 10 years old and a stronger one for adults. Patients must apply the cream to the white patches on their skin for at least 3 months before seeing any results. It is the simplest and safest treatment but not as effective as some other treatments. Treatment must be carefully monitored, as steroids can thin and damage the skin if not carefully watched. The doctor will closely monitor the patient for side effects such as skin shrinkage and skin striae (stretch marks). Because of the side effects, steroid creams should not be used for extended periods of time.