I reserve any steroid cream for individual leasions with a bandaid to cover. broad application thins ALL the skin and even light scratching causes bleeding and then infection, its not for broad use of long term use. For red, sore infected ones I apply Benzoil peroxide to each lesion, lots of sores I just opt for bleach bath. I dont use over the counter stuff, list of chemicals to lengthy for my already sensitive skin.

It does affect everything! For me, everything has to be planned according to what my PN and the weather decide I can or cannot do. When I'm an outdoor kind of person, doing things like gardening, mowing, etc, I may or may not get to do things that day, or part of it. It bites!
I don't believe I've used halobetasol, so can only go by Google listing which shows it can take up to 2 weeks to show improvement, but I don't see a limit on time.

Yeah definitely be careful with that stuff cuz my doctor told me to use it for a week then lay off of it and then go back well of course I didn't listen and my right arm skin is extremely thin.

That's exactly what happens to me.. it's insane!!! 😱

I have started adhesives sensitivity since PN hit me. I got lesions that started from where the bandaid or tape was. I've learned to let it bleed,and have a cloth ready. If I have an ointment on, I try to make it so there is nothing touching it, for at least 20-30 minutes if possible. It does help, at least me, for that short time.
I cannot do heavy lotions when in a flare, or when it's hot/humid. I use Nivea breathable for a lotion.
Ive also started rotating using an oil for skin, lightly, in lieu of lotion. It helps in rehydrating!