I've been using a cream on my face every night for about a year and a half and have recently found out it contains 1% hydrocortisone. I stopped using it after reading that prolonged use of hydrocortisone destroys collagen and increases skin fragility. After reading this I began to notice several fine lines under my eyes where I applied the cortisone. This is extremely worrisome considering I'm only 17. Any advice on how to fix the damage done would be much appreciated.

You should avoid using hydrocortisone on the face unless absolutely necessary. The risk of side effects depends on the strength of the steroid, the length of application, the site treated, and the nature of the skin problem. If you use a potent steroid cream on your face as a moisturizer, you will develop the side effects within a few weeks. Other than the mild products for a short time, the steroid creams and ointments should be used under the doctor's advice. Hydrocortisone rarely cause wrinkles, however, it can cause other side effects if it's not used correctly.

Using antioxidant creams and lotions (topical products) may help reduce the risk of wrinkles and protect against sun damage. Vitamin E & A creams can also decreased skin roughness, length of facial lines, and wrinkle depth.