Thin, fragile skin (skin atrophy)

Overview

Strong steroid creams used too long on the same spot can thin skin and cause stretch marks.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Thin, fragile skin that tears or bruises easily

Less common

• Shiny skin
• Purple bruises

When to get medical care

Causes

Aging, sun, steroids.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Older age
• Long-term steroids

Diagnosis

A clinician looks at the skin.

Questions you may be asked

• Steroid use

Treatment

Protect fragile skin.

Self-care

• Moisturize twice a day
• Wear long sleeves
• Pad sharp furniture edges
• Use paper tape, not sticky bandages

Prevention

To protect skin:

• Sunscreen
• Use steroid creams only as directed

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Can't fully reverse, but can be protected.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Should my steroid cream be changed?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Thin, fragile skin (skin atrophy)