Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.    This is desonide. This medicine helps relieve redness, itching, or swelling caused by certain skin conditions. It may have other uses, too.   Desonide is a steroid available in many forms, such as a cream, lotion, or ointment. It is often applied two to four times each day for just a few weeks. You should use it exactly how your doctor tells you to. You should apply a thin film of Desonide to the affected area of skin. Then, rub it in gently until the skin absorbs most of it. After the dose, you should wash your hands with soap and water. If you use the lotion, remember to shake the bottle well before each dose. You should NOT cover the treated area with bandages or wraps, unless your doctor says it's okay. It is a good idea, though, to wear loose-fitting clothing over the area so other people do not come into contact with it. You should apply this medicine only to skin that is outside of the body, and never on the mouth, eyes, or vaginal area. Also, do not apply it to areas of open skin, such as skin that was just shaved or that has cuts or scrapes.    Most people tolerate this medicine well. Common side effects include a little burning, itching, and dryness at the site. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop using this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. For best results with this medicine, let your doctor know if your condition does not improve after several days. Also, call if you notice any unusual changes to the site, or if it gets worse instead of better.