Why Steroid-Free Matters: Understanding the Long-Term Risks of Corticosteroids

We believe that effective skincare should never come at the expense of long-term health. While corticosteroids have long been a mainstay in treating inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, growing evidence highlights the risks associated with their prolonged use. 

We believe it’s time for a new standard, one that empowers patients without compromising their future wellbeing. 

Why is corticosteroid use becoming more common? 

We increasingly hear from individuals who feel trapped in cycles of flare-ups, stronger prescriptions, and worsening symptoms. Environmental triggers, allergens, and elevated stress levels, particularly in urban areas, are also contributing to a surge in inflammatory conditions like eczema and rosacea. 

The global use of corticosteroids is on the rise, and here’s why: 

Over-the-counter availability 
In many countries, mild corticosteroids are easily accessible without a prescription, leading to frequent use without adequate medical supervision. 

Lack of alternative solutions 
For many, steroids are presented as the only viable treatment option. This often leads to long-term use that was never intended to be sustained. 

Instant gratification culture 
The rapid relief corticosteroids provide encourages repeated use, sometimes unknowingly, at the expense of long-term skin health. 

Our team views the growing reliance on topical corticosteroids as a call to action. There is an urgent need for safe, effective alternatives that do not carry the hidden risks of prolonged steroid use. 

Which systems are affected by corticosteroids? 

Corticosteroids don’t just act locally; they can impact multiple systems in the body, particularly with long-term or systemic use. 

Skeletal System 
They reduce bone formation and increase bone resorption, contributing to osteoporosis and fragility fractures, particularly in older adults and post-menopausal women. 

Endocrine System 
Steroids suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, potentially causing adrenal insufficiency. This may result in fatigue, weakness, and even life-threatening adrenal crises if steroids are stopped abruptly. 

Immune System 
Corticosteroids lower immune function, increasing vulnerability to bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. They can also mask symptoms, delaying diagnosis. 

Skin 
Side effects of topical steroid use include skin thinning, delayed wound healing, increased bruising, and visible blood vessels. 

What is steroid resistance?  

Steroid resistance occurs when the body becomes less responsive to corticosteroid treatment over time. This is especially concerning for those with chronic inflammatory conditions. There are a number of factors that contribute to steroid resistance including: 

Receptor desensitisation 
Corticosteroids act on specific receptors in the body. With repeated exposure, these receptors may become downregulated or less responsive. 

Genetic factors 
Some individuals possess genetic variants that reduce responsiveness to corticosteroids, necessitating higher doses and increasing the risk of side effects. 

Changes in inflammatory pathways 
Chronic inflammation can alter immune responses, rendering corticosteroids less effective over time. 

Incorrect or inconsistent use 
Overuse, abrupt cessation, or irregular application can reduce effectiveness and contribute to withdrawal symptoms or resistance. 

GL-1 to the rescue: Meet the next-generation of skincare for psoriasis and eczema-prone skin 

If you live with sensitive psoriasis or know someone who does, you may be familiar with the cycle of side effects: creams that soothe today but thin your skin tomorrow, flares that return with a vengeance, and constant concern over long-term damage. We shared that frustration, so we built something better. 

What Makes GL-1 Different? 

It targets the real culprits 

Psoriasis isn’t just red patches, it’s a molecular traffic jam. Three proteins (IL-17A, SIRT1, and STAT3) drive skin cell growth and inflammation. GL-1 turns down this trio, calming inflammation at its source. 

Triple-powered actives 
Each microscopic lipid “bubble” (think of them as tiny delivery drones) carries a triad of copper, ubiquinone (CoQ10), and tocopherol (vitamin E). Copper calms overactive enzymes, CoQ10 restores cellular energy, and vitamin E combats free radicals. Together, they target the IL-17A/SIRT1/STAT3 axis, without a single drop of steroid. 

Smart skin delivery 
We encapsulate our actives in skin-friendly lipid bubbles that glide on and absorb deeply with no greasy residue. A cushion-soft hydrogel drip-feeds nutrients for hours while locking in dewy moisture. Meanwhile, a calming yeast-and-zinc ferment reins in flare-fuelling iron, and a feather-light emulsion leaves skin smooth, never shiny. 

Proof It’s More Than Hype 

With research at the heart of our work, we have proof that our product is delivering something special. Early trials have confirmed: 

• Non-corrosive, non-irritant formula, certified through OECD safety tests 

• 60–70% reduction in IL-6, a key inflammatory signal, in human skin cell models 

• Up to 15% increase in fibroblast growth, supporting faster healing and stronger skin 

• 50–60% reduction in oxidative stress, because calmer skin heals better 

• All validated in partnership with Eurofins and CABR 

• Already tested to Technology Readiness Level 5 

Built for Every Shade of Skin 

From day one, we tested GL-1 across a full spectrum of tones and textures. Why? Because people of colour face a 52% higher misdiagnosis rate for inflammatory skin conditions. GL-1 was made to help change that. 

Where We’re Headed 

Our full product line is being designed to work as one seamless, steroid-free routine: cleanse → treat → maintain. That means less clutter from extra hydrators, emollients, and OTC creams and none of the long-term downsides of steroids. 

With UK patent GB2508023.5 secured, and first-in-human trials set to launch, we’re moving swiftly and responsibly towards a future where calming sensitive skin never requires compromise.  

Join Us on Our Journey 

Granlab is committed to blending sensitivity with breakthrough science and transforming lives. We invite you to join us in reshaping the future of dermatological care; one patient, one formula, one skin at a time.