What impact does thick application of topical corticosteroids have on the skin?

The impact of a thick application of topical corticosteroids on the skin is that it can enhance the medication's penetration. When corticosteroids are applied in a thick layer, the occlusive nature can increase the drug's absorption into the skin. This can be particularly beneficial in treating inflammatory skin conditions, as it allows for a greater effect of the medication.

However, a thick application might also lead to local skin irritation, although that isn’t the primary focus of the correct answer. The effectiveness of topical corticosteroids typically depends on the amount applied; while a moderate application can be optimal, applying too much can irritate the skin and potentially lead to adverse effects, which might detract from the therapeutic benefit. In this case, promoting healing is also not a direct consequence of oversaturation but rather of appropriate dosing.

Understanding the right balance in applying topical medications is key. An excessive amount may not only be unnecessary but can also lead to complications such as skin thinning, striae, or folliculitis, causing more harm than good rather than enhancing the treatment outcomes. This complicates the effectiveness rather than reducing it outright.