Clobetasol is a steroid medicine that's used on the skin to treat swelling, itching and irritation. Although it is a steroid, it's not the same as anabolic steroids.
Clobetasol works by reducing the swelling (inflammation), itching and pain caused by an allergic reaction or irritation.
It can help with skin problems such as:
Clobetasol is available on prescription only.
It comes as a cream, ointment, scalp treatment and shampoo.
There is also a cream and ointment called clobetasone which sounds similar to clobetasol. Clobetasone is much milder and you can buy it from pharmacies or shops.
Clobetasol is also available as a medicine combined with an antibiotic (neomycin sulfate) and an antifungal (nystatin). This is only available on prescription.
Key facts
- Do not put clobetasol on your face unless your doctor says it's OK. It can make some skin problems on the face worse.
- Clobetasol starts to work after a few days. You can use it for up to 4 weeks.
- Clobetasol (including scalp treatment and shampoo) is a very strong steroid.
- If you have applied clobetasol to your skin, wait at least 30 minutes before using another product, like a moisturiser.
- If your doctor has prescribed high doses of clobetasol to control your symptoms you may need to carry a steroid emergency card. Ask your pharmacist or doctor.
- Dried skin cream on your clothes or bedding makes them more likely to catch fire (flammable). Avoid naked flames.