Is your skin flaring up — or is it reacting to the withdrawal of topical steroids? These two experiences can look and feel strikingly similar. But knowing the difference is essential to protect your skin and choose the right path toward healing.

In this guide, we’ll help you clearly understand the difference between a common eczema flare-up and Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW), so you can feel more confident and supported in your skin journey. We'll also share how Rejûvaskin’s Skin Recovery Cream can be a gentle, non-steroidal option to calm and support compromised skin.

What Is a Skin Flare-Up?

A flare-up is your skin’s way of signaling distress. If you live with eczema, dermatitis, or other chronic skin conditions, you're probably familiar with these episodes. They often arise suddenly, triggered by:

• Allergens or irritants

• Stress or hormonal shifts

• Changes in weather or environment

• Skin barrier damage (from overwashing, harsh products, etc.)

Symptoms usually include itchiness, redness, inflammation, and dry patches. The good news? Flare-ups often calm down with soothing skincare, gentle cleansing, and — for some — short-term topical steroids.

What Is Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW)?

TSW is a severe, rebound reaction that may occur after long-term or frequent use of topical corticosteroids. It doesn’t happen to everyone — but for those affected, it can be intense and deeply uncomfortable.

Here’s what often sets TSW apart:

• Skin burning and stinging (not just itching)

• Widespread redness, even in areas where steroids weren’t applied

• Swelling, oozing, and raw sensitivity

• Skin that worsens right after stopping or tapering steroids

• Flare-ups that become increasingly difficult to manage with medication

Research is still emerging, but many dermatologists now recognize TSW as a real — and rising — concern among chronic steroid users (Brookes et al., 2023).

So... How Can You Tell the Difference?

1. What triggered the flare?

If your skin worsened after coming into contact with a known allergen or skipped moisturizer on a cold day, it’s likely a flare-up. But if symptoms appeared or intensified after stopping or reducing steroids, TSW may be at play.

2. What does it feel like?

Itchiness is common with both. But a deep burning or stinging sensation that makes your skin feel raw or “on fire” is more characteristic of TSW (Ahuja & Lio, 2025).

3. How is your skin reacting to treatment?

Flare-ups often improve with barrier repair and, when needed, low-potency steroids. In contrast, TSW tends to worsenwith continued steroid use — or only gets temporarily better before rebounding again.

Why This Difference Matters So Much

Mistaking TSW for a flare-up (or vice versa) can lead to the wrong care plan. For example:

• Overusing steroids on TSW-affected skin may worsen inflammation and delay healing

• Avoiding all medications during a true eczema flare-up can leave your skin vulnerable and uncomfortable

• The emotional toll can be just as tough — especially when relief feels out of reach

Understanding your skin’s signals can empower you to take the next step with clarity, compassion, and the right tools.

Gentle Skincare Support During Flare-Ups & TSW

Whether you're managing a flare or navigating TSW, one thing is certain: Your skin needs calm, hydration, and barrier support.

At Rejûvaskin, we believe in helping your skin restore itself — without unnecessary harshness or hidden irritants.

Skin Recovery Cream: Repair Without Steroids

Our Skin Recovery Cream was formulated specifically for skin that’s fragile, sensitive, or in distress. It’s powered by advanced botanicals, ceramides, and barrier-restoring ingredients designed to:

• Hydrate deeply without clogging pores

• Soothe discomfort and reduce sensitivity

• Reinforce the skin’s natural barrier

• Support skin resilience during periods of stress or steroid withdrawal

It’s safe to use on compromised skin and is free from steroids, parabens, and artificial fragrance — making it an ideal companion during TSW or eczema recovery.

Pro Tip:

Pair it with our Hydrating Facial Cleanser for a complete routine that cleans without stripping.

When to Seek Dermatologist Support

While at-home care is powerful, don’t hesitate to talk to a skin specialist if:

• You’re unsure whether it’s TSW or a flare

• Your symptoms worsen or become unbearable

• You experience signs of infection (pus, fever, spreading redness)

• You feel overwhelmed emotionally by your skin’s condition

Healing takes time — and every skin journey is different. The most important thing? Give your skin what it needs: support, not punishment.

Let’s Wrap This Up

Skin that’s burning, peeling, or flaring up unexpectedly can feel confusing — even scary. Whether it’s eczema, a flare-up, or TSW, the goal is the same: calm the chaos, restore your barrier, and treat your skin with compassion.

You don’t need to go through it alone — and you don’t need to depend on steroids to feel comfortable in your skin again. With gentle, barrier-focused care like Rejûvaskin’s Skin Recovery Cream, you can support your skin through every step of the healing process.

Works Cited 

Brookes, T. S., Barlow, R., Mohandas, P., et al. (2023). Topical steroid withdrawal: An emerging clinical problem.Clinical and Experimental Dermatology. Link

Ahuja, K., & Lio, P. (2025). Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome: A Retrospective Chart Review in a Specialty Center.Journal of Integrative Dermatology. Link