Though I am probably wrong, it appears that topical corticosteroids can cause numbness of the skin. Here is a real clinical case I know about: The patient caught a jock itch (Tinea cruris) and got prescribed a cream combining a topical corticosteroid (1% hydrocortisone) and an anti-fungal agent (Lamisil C). Having a habit of applying large amounts of cream to his skin, he did the same with this cream, despite being told by the issuing pharmacist to apply a much smaller amount. After two days of such a treatment he started complaining about the whole area going numb. So he reduced the amount of cream he applied to the area, and the numbness was also considerably reduced.

Now, as far as I know, all topical corticosteroids cause vasoconstriction, and considerable vasoconstriction should cause numbness, as happens to the exposed skin at frigid temperatures, for example. However, I never found anything to confirm this hypothesis of mine regarding the effects of topical corticosteroids. Wikipedia's article on topical steroids, for example, gives a lengthy list of diverse side-effects, but skin numbness isn't one of them. But then, what's wrong with my argument (i.e. hypothesis)?

I wonder if there is anyone here who can solve this puzzle? So if you're knowledgeable in the matter, please post.