What is Topical Steroid
Withdrawl (TSW)?
#HEALINGWITHCJAY
#MYCJAYSTORY
Our CJAY Story
Here at CJAY we know TSW is More Than Skin Deep
As TSW sufferers ourselves, we understand how important it is to feel connected
during this journey. We are incredibly proud of the community we’ve built and
recognise the value of every individual story. We encourage open conversations
about TSW to help raise awareness and support one another.
If you would like to join in on the conversation, feel free to use the hashtags
#HealingWithCJAY and #MyCJAYJourney to share your experiences. If you
have any questions regarding CJAY or would like further support, please don’t
hesitate to get in touch with us—we’re here to help
Your CJAY Stories
FAQ
Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW) is a debilitating condition that can occur after
prolonged use of topical corticosteroids, which are commonly prescribed for
eczema, allergic reactions, and other inflammatory skin conditions. Also known as
Red Skin Syndrome, TSW happens when the skin and body become dependent on
steroids, leading to severe withdrawal symptoms once they are discontinued.
An Introduction
The Biological Impact
Steroid creams work by suppressing inflammation through artificial cortisol—a
hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands to regulate immune responses,
stress, and skin health. However, prolonged steroid use can disrupt the body’s ability
to produce cortisol on its own. When steroids are stopped, the adrenal glands may
struggle to regain normal function, leading to cortisol deficiency.
This can result in:
• Increased inflammation and hypersensitivity
• Severe skin reactions, including burning, peeling, and cracking
• Extreme dryness and an impaired skin barrier
• Chronic fatigue and difficulty regulating body temperature
Additionally, the lack of cortisol can trigger emotional distress, leading to heightened
anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Many people going through TSW report feeling
mentally and emotionally drained, making recovery even more challenging.
Why Is TSW Overlooked?
Despite the growing number of people suffering from TSW, it remains widely
unrecognised by mainstream medicine. Doctors often dismiss symptoms as a
worsening of the original skin condition rather than withdrawal from steroids. This lack
of recognition has left many people without proper guidance or medical support.
Moisture Withdrawl Treatment (MWT)
and TSW Recovery
One approach that some people use to speed up TSW recovery is Moisture
Withdrawal Treatment (MWT). This method involves reducing or completely
eliminating external moisturizers, allowing the skin to naturally rebuild its barrier
function.
Many people going through TSW instinctively want to keep moisturising because they
are used to managing eczema with creams. However, TSW is not eczema—it is a
condition caused by steroid dependence, and the healing process is different. Instead
of treating it like dry skin, it should be treated more like a wound
Why Moisture Withdrawl Works
• Think of a scab—if you constantly apply moisture, it won’t dry out and heal properly.
TSW works in a similar way: over-moisturising can prolong the cycle of flaking,
weeping, and inflammation.
• Allowing the skin to adjust to producing its own oils helps restore its natural function.
• Reducing external moisture can help limit excessive peeling and oozing by
encouraging the skin to dry out and repair itself.
As TSW sufferers ourselves, we understand that moisture withdrawal can be
uncomfortable and challenging. That’s why CJAY has been specially formulated to
bring relief without compromising your moisture withdrawal journey. Our serum
supports the skin’s natural healing process, ensuring you experience the benefits of
MWT while providing soothing comfort during this tough recovery phase.
Supporting Your Skin Through TSW
There is no universal treatment for TSW, but in addition to MWT, some people explore
Cold Atmospheric Plasma (CAP) therapy, which has been proven to accelerate healing
by reducing inflammation and promoting skin regeneration. However, CAP therapy is
expensive and not widely accessible.
CJAY is designed to support those undergoing TSW—whether following moisture
withdrawal or another recovery method—by offering a gentle, effective, and affordable
alternative to CAP therapy and conventional skincare
The CJAY Community
