Arcutis Biotherapeutics Unveils Nationwide Survey Highlighting Concerns Over Topical Steroids and the Need for Long-Term Treatment Strategies
On January 21, 2026, Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: ARQT), a leading player in the biopharmaceutical sector focused on immuno-dermatology, announced the results of a significant nationwide survey that underscores the challenges faced by the 46 million Americans living with chronic inflammatory skin conditions. The survey, titled *Skin Insights: Steroid Perceptions in Chronic Inflammatory Skin Diseases*, reveals critical insights about patient perceptions and treatment strategies concerning conditions such as plaque psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis.
1. Key Findings Shed Light on Treatment Approaches
The survey, involving 1,000 adults and 500 parents of children diagnosed with these conditions, highlights a troubling trend: many treatment plans are still reactive, focusing primarily on managing flare-ups rather than employing long-term strategies aimed at preventing them.
Chronic Conditions Require Lifelong Management
“Psoriasis is a chronic disease that requires lifelong management — and much the same could be said of seborrheic dermatitis and eczema,” stated Leah M. Howard, JD, president and CEO of the National Psoriasis Foundation. According to the survey results:
- 72% of adults and 80% of children reported experiencing uncontrolled disease at least once a month, with some facing flare-ups as frequently as daily.
- An alarming 79% of adults and 78% of parents noted that their treatment plans primarily focus on addressing sudden worsening of symptoms instead of long-term management.
These findings underscore the pressing need for innovative treatment solutions that prioritize disease prevention.
2. Concerns Surrounding Steroid Use
Topical steroids remain the most frequently prescribed treatment for chronic inflammatory skin conditions. However, the survey revealed a strong undercurrent of concern regarding their long-term use:
- 88% of adults and 91% of parents expressed worries about potential side effects from topical steroids, with the most significant concerns being skin thinning (59% for adults, 55% for parents) and hypopigmentation (46% for adults, 51% for parents).
- Despite these concerns, nearly half of the respondents (48% of adults, 45% of parents) admitted to feeling hesitant to discuss their worries about long-term steroid use with their healthcare providers.
3. The Emotional and Social Impact of Skin Diseases
The ramifications of uncontrolled skin conditions extend far beyond physical symptoms. The survey highlights the emotional and social burdens associated with these diseases:
- 65% of adults and 72% of parents reported experiencing discomfort throughout the day when their skin condition was uncontrolled.
- Frustration, embarrassment, and anxiety were prevalent, affecting both adults and children alike, with 40% of adults and parents seeking alternative treatment options due to anxiety or depression.
Furthermore, the impact on social lives is significant, with nearly 47% of adults and 54% of children avoiding social activities due to their conditions.
4. Persistent Worry Even with Controlled Symptoms
Even when symptoms are managed, many individuals continue to experience anxiety and low confidence levels regarding their treatment options:
- Approximately 59% of adults and 61% of parents reported feeling self-conscious about visible scars, while a significant number expressed anxiety about future flare-ups.
- A mere 20% of adults and 19% of parents felt completely confident in their ability to manage their conditions using prescribed treatments.
5. A Call for Change in Treatment Paradigms
Patrick Burnett, MD, PhD, FAAD, Chief Medical Officer at Arcutis, emphasized the need for a shift from episodic care to more proactive disease management strategies. “These survey findings highlight the real-world challenges that adults and parents of children with these conditions face in managing chronic skin diseases,” he noted.
6. Conclusion: The Path Forward
The findings from the *Skin Insights: Steroid Perceptions in Chronic Inflammatory Skin Diseases* survey highlight the urgent need for Arcutis Biotherapeutics and the broader dermatological community to develop innovative, effective non-steroidal treatment alternatives that can offer sustained relief and improve the quality of life for those grappling with chronic inflammatory skin conditions. As the conversation around skin health evolves, so too must the strategies employed to manage these pervasive diseases.
For those interested in further details, the full survey infographic is available for viewing.
