Betnovate Cream & Ointment

Betnovate is a prescription-only medicine used to treat inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema.

Betnovate is a topical corticosteroid containing the active ingredient betamethasone valerate. It is classed as a potent steroid and is usually prescribed when milder steroid creams or emollients have not been effective.

It is available in several formulations, including:

• Cream
• Ointment
• Lotion
• Scalp application

Betnovate works by reducing inflammation, helping to relieve redness, swelling and itching.

Betnovate is primarily used to treat moderate to moderately severe eczema, particularly on areas of thicker skin where milder steroids may not be quite as effective.

It may also be prescribed for other inflammatory skin conditions, such as:

• Allergic contact dermatitis
• Irritant contact dermatitis
• Psoriasis
• Seborrhoeic dermatitis
• Inflammatory reactions to insect bites

Betnovate cream and ointment contain the same active ingredient, betamethasone valerate, and work in the same way. The difference is the texture and how they suit different skin types.

Betnovate cream is lighter and absorbs quickly, making it better for moist or weeping skin.

Betnovate ointment is thicker and greasier, which helps treat very dry or scaly skin by locking in moisture.

While we sell both, the most suitable option depends on the condition of your skin and the area being treated.

Many users notice an improvement in symptoms such as redness and itching within a few days, although response times vary.

Treatment courses are usually limited to up to 4 weeks, unless advised otherwise

Betnovate is typically prescribed for use on:

• Torso
• Arms
• Legs
• Scalp

It should not be used on the face, groin or skin folds unless specifically instructed by a healthcare professional.

• Continue using emollients regularly while using Betnovate
• Apply your emollient first and wait around 15 minutes before applying Betnovate
• Apply a thin layer of Betnovate to the affected area once or twice daily
• Use fingertip units to guide the amount applied
• Wash your hands before and after application (unless treating the hands)
• Reduce frequency as symptoms improve, or stop as advised
• Do not apply Betnovate to broken or infected skin unless directed by a doctor.

Betnovate contains betamethasone valerate 0.1%, a potent corticosteroid that works within skin cells to reduce the release of inflammatory chemicals.

This helps to:

• Reduce redness and swelling
• Relieve itching
• Break the itch–scratch cycle that can worsen eczema
• Different formulations are suited to different skin types:
• Cream – best for moist or weeping skin

Betnovate is available in lotion and scalp application forms designed for use on the scalp. These contain betamethasone valerate 0.1% and are easier to apply through hair.

For scalp eczema:

• Apply to clean, dry scalp once or twice daily
• Part the hair to ensure even application
• Gently massage into affected areas
• Wash hands thoroughly after use

Most eczema is managed with regular emollient use, which helps keep the skin hydrated and protected. When moisturisers alone are not enough, a topical steroid such as Betnovate may be added to control inflammation during flare-ups.

Long-term management focuses on:

• Consistent moisturising
• Using steroid treatments only when needed
• Identifying and avoiding individual triggers

Betnovate Alternatives

While Betnovate is effective for eczema symptoms, there are other options available through prescription. These include:

• Dermovate
• Eumovate Cream & Ointment

When eczema is associated with infection and unresponsive to less potent corticosteroids:

• Fucibet Cream
• Fucidin Cream
• Fucidin H

These treatments can be obtained through an online consultation with a healthcare provider.