Topical corticosteroids are widely available in dermatology to manage inflammatory skin conditions. Whilst you’ll probably heard of hydrocortisone, you may be less familiar with clobetasone. This is a less famous but powerful topical steroid for treating skin and scalp issues. In this article we’ll explore what clobetasone is, how it works and what side effects to watch out for. We’ll also compare clobetasone with other steroids in terms of potency and uses.
What is Clobetasone?
To give its full name, clobetasone butyrate is a moderately potent topical corticosteroid. It can help reduce inflammation and irritation in skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis as well as insect bites or allergies. Clobetasone works by dampening the skin’s immune response, thereby reducing redness, swelling, itching and discomfort. It usually comes in the form of creams or ointments and application is normally once or twice daily to the affected area. In the UK it is a prescription only medicine available under the brand name Eumovate and in compounded formulations.
The main uses of clobetasone are short-term management of inflammatory skin conditions. This particularly when over-the-counter treatments have failed. Some of the most common uses include:
- Eczema (including atopic and contact dermatitis)
- Psoriasis (mild to moderate)
- Seborrhoeic dermatitis
- Lichen simplex
- Insect bites
- Allergic skin reactions
- Inflammatory scarring hair loss such e.g. central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia
It’s particularly useful when a mild corticosteroid like hydrocortisone isn’t effective enough but wish to avoid side effects of stronger steroids.
Where Can Clobetasone be Used?
Clobetasone can be used on most parts of the body as per your doctor’s directions. However, extra caution is necessary when using on sensitive areas such as the groin or underarms. Sometimes, doctor might even prescribe Clobetasone for use on the face or scalp. The skin on the face is more delicate so easily prone to irritation and dryness. As such, clobetasone cream formulations may better on the face and sensitive areas. Also, use on the face is usually for short periods and ideally not more than once daily. For scalp conditions like eczema or psoriasis, clobetasone may be useful. As well as cautious use, serum, lotions or foams formulas are usually preferred over creams. This is due to easier application in hair-bearing areas.
How Does Clobetasone Compare with Other Steroids for Potency?
As a general rule, clobetasone sits in the middle of the topical corticosteroid potency scale. Here’s how it compares with other commonly available topical steroids:
- Hydrocortisone (Mild): Clobetasone has higher potency than this mild corticosteroid. Hydrocortisone is generally considered the first step in treating mild inflammation or for use on delicate areas like the face.
- Betamethasone (Potent): This is a powerful corticosteroid which is stronger than clobetasone. Bethamethasone is often prescribed for more extensive or persistent inflammation. Whilst it is more effective than clobetasone for stubborn flare-ups, carries a higher risk of side effects.
- Clobetasol propionate (Very Potent): Although clobetasone and clobetasol propionate may sound similar, their potency and side effect profiles are quite different. Clobetasol propionate is significantly stronger than clobetasone. It’s mainly used for severe skin disorders such as plaque psoriasis and lichen planus. However, this potency also brings a greater risk of side effects like skin thinning and systemic absorption with long-term use.
This balance of potency and risks makes clobetasone a good choice when a mild steroid hasn’t worked, but a strong steroid may be excessive or risky. As such, doctors may find it a useful option for sensitive skin or use in more delicate areas that are in need of something stronger than hydrocortisone.
Risks & Side Effects of Clobetasone Use
Des[ite its potency, when used correctly under medical supervision, clobetasone is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, like all medicines it carries some risks and side effects including:
- Allergic reaction
- Burning, stinging or itching at application site
- Skin thinning (atrophy)
- Stretch marks (striae)
- Perioral dermatitis (rash around the mouth)
- Worsening of reactive skin conditions like rosacea
- Hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin) and changes in skin texture when misused. This is particularly noticeable in medium to dark skin tones and can be permanent.
- Increased susceptibility to infections
Side effects are more likely to occur when clobetasone is used for long periods, on delicate skin or over large areas of the body. You can reduce the likelihood of these risks by following your doctor’s instructions carefully. Here are some general safety tips that they may recommend:
- Apply a thin layer to clean dry skin
- Use it once or twice daily exactly as prescribed
- Do not apply to broken, infected or rosacea-prone skin
- Avoid long-term use (usually no more than 7–14 days continuously unless your doctor prescribes otherwise)
If you experience any side effects please seek medical help immediately.
Alternative Anti-Inflammatory Treatments
If you experienced side effects, did not respond positively to clobetasone or its not suitable for you, your doctor may consider an alternative. There are a number of steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories with common topical options including:
- Steroids: This includes hydrocortisone as a milder option if clobetasone was too strong or betamethasone and clobetasol propionate if it was too mild.
- Tacrolimus & Pimecrolimus: These calcineurin inhibitors are steroid-free options for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema. They are especially useful for long-term use or on delicate areas.
- Barrier Creams & Emollients: These are essential for soothing, hydrating and protecting the skin barrier. They’re often used alongside steroid cream but can be an alternative in mild irritation or for maintenance.
Ultimately, your doctor will select the right treatments for the severity and location of yout skin concern. They’ll also take into account your medical history, existing medications and he severity and location of your skin condition.
Clobetasone is a highly effective steroid cream for managing moderate skin inflammation. Its moderate potency makes it a useful step up from hydrocortisone without the higher risks associated with stronger steroids like clobetasol propionate. However, it’s not without risks especially if used improperly or for excessive periods of time. As with any medication, ensure you follow your prescription instructions and discuss with your doctor side effects and how to reduce them.
We are beyond about personalised skincare and hair treatments. Our doctors treat a range of conditions such as acne and scars, hyperpigmentation, melasma, skin ageing. We also provide prescription strength hair loss treatments. Our online skin clinic offers safe and effective topical custom treatments to suitable patients. We use prescription-strength ingredients like Tretinoin, Hydroquinone, Minoxidil, Finasetride and Dutasteride where appropriate. To start your personalised skincare plan, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin starts here.
