1/2 Producer AG Blaxx withdraws from the spotlight because of his skin disease (photo: Megan Hanegraaf).
Producer and rapper AG Blaxx from Tilburg got huge skin problems after he stopped lubricating hormone ointment. He therefore pulled himself all the way back from the spotlight and believes that doctors prescribe the ointment too easily. The drug is frequently used in patients with eczema. But what exactly does that ointment do with your skin, and can you just stop?
The complaints of Anneudy Gonzalez, the real name of AG Blaxx, point to Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW). This is a skin condition that occurs when patients suddenly stop lubricating hormone ointment after prolonged use. Symptoms include flakes, inflammation and itching.
According to Gertruud Krekels, dermatologist at Bergman Clinics in Eindhoven, the hormone ointment itself is not the reason for the skin disease TSW. “Hormone ointment is an oppressor, not a healer,” she says. “There is often still an inflammation under your skin when you suddenly stop lubricating. That inflammation then comes back in full force, sometimes with extra complaints such as acne or pus heads. See it when the occurrence of an underlying skin disease.”
“The skin on your face is naturally very thin, so you have to be extra careful there.”
Wrong or too intensive use of the ointment can also be a reason for the creation of TSW. “With good treatment you get instructions from your doctor or dermatologist about how much and how often you can smear,” says Krekels. “That depends on whether you are a child or adult and where you use it. The skin on your face or in your neck is naturally very thin, so there you have to be extra careful.” For those places there is hormone replacement ointment, where the side effects are less large.
“The cause of eczema is often dried out skin.”
According to her, it is important to reduce slowly if you want to stop. “Usually the doctor or dermatologist who prescribes it gives advice on this,” says Krekels.
The dermatologist emphasizes that extra skin care is also needed. “The cause of eczema is often dried out skin. While showering, your skin dries further, especially if you use soap. This creates cracks and new inflammations.” She advises not to use soap products but always a neutral, fat ointment. “That helps to restore the skin.”
“It is an extremely safe means.”
Fear of hormone ointment and its consequences are not necessary in many cases, according to Krekels. “Everyone can get TSW but it is a rarity. Hormone ointment is an extremely safe means that has been used for more than 50 years. It is very effective in many patients.”
According to her, pulling the bell is important. “Consult your doctor well about your treatment and if you want to stop. There are many academic hospitals with dermatologists who specialize in eczema in our country. They can help you, even if you have TSW.”
