Topical steroid creams and ointments are a safe and effective treatment when they are used as directed by your doctor or nurse practitioner. Skin damage can be prevented by applying creams/ointments, including steroid creams and ointments, prescribed by your doctor as soon as itchy or rough skin is noticed. Not using enough of the eczema treatments can cause skin damage due to itching, which can lead to sores, scabs and scarring. Additionally, people who have eczema that is not well managed are more likely to have skin infections.