Topical steroid addiction and withdrawal encompasses the concept of dependence on topical steroids with worsening skin signs after its cessation. Skin manifestations may be more extensive or of a different morphology from the primary dermatosis.

Tachyphylaxis, dysregulation of glucocorticoid receptors, rebound vasodilation and impaired skin barrier leading to a cytokine cascade are plausible pathomechanisms, although evidence is insufficient.