Laura-Alicia Summers, a former contestant on the reality show "Ex On The Beach," has revealed that she experienced a severe adverse reaction after using a steroid cream prescribed for eczema. Summers, 42, from Nottingham, who previously pursued a modelling career including appearances in Playboy and underwent extensive cosmetic surgery, said the reaction caused significant distress and physical changes.

Summers had been using steroid creams since childhood to manage her eczema. However, while filming in Mexico for the MTV show, she developed an intense burning sensation that spread across her skin. Despite this, medical professionals initially increased the strength of the steroid cream, which intensified her discomfort. After discontinuing the treatment, Summers was diagnosed with severe Topical Steroid Withdrawal, a condition that can result from prolonged use of potent topical steroids.

Describing the impact of the condition, Summers said her face and body, which she had worked hard to maintain, became severely affected. She likened her appearance at the worst point to the fictional character Freddy Krueger, underscoring the extent of her skin’s deterioration. Summers expressed that she believes the condition might have been preventable, adding to the emotional and physical burden she faced during this period.

Topical Steroid Withdrawal is a recognized but sometimes underreported complication, typically occurring after long-term use of steroid creams when they are reduced or stopped. Symptoms can include burning, redness, and rash, with severity varying among individuals.

Summers’ experience highlights the potential risks of potent steroid treatments and the importance of careful medical supervision, particularly for chronic conditions like eczema.