How to use clobetasol propionate on your scalp

Doctors may prescribe clobetasol propionate to treat skin and scalp conditions, such as eczema, allergies, rashes, dermatitis, and psoriasis. This medication can help reduce itching and swelling that may occur. It can also help lower symptoms.

Clobetasol propionate is a potent topical corticosteroid that requires direct application on the skin or scalp. It’s also available in shampoo form.

What to know before using the medication

Clobetasol propionate (Temovate, Cormax ointment, Clobex) is an effective potent topical corticosteroid. At doses as low as 2 grams (g) per day, this product can suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis is a part of the endocrine and central nervous system that manages hormonal balances in response to stress.

If your body absorbs too much clobetasol propionate, complications may occur, such as high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and glucose in the urine. So, this drug may not suit people with diabetes, as well as those with liver disease or Cushing syndrome.

Clobetasol propionate is for topical use only and must not come in contact with your eyes. Because of its strength, following a doctor’s instructions closely is very important.

Depending on the drug type and its concentration, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve clobetasol propionate for anyone under the age of 18 years.

How to use clobetasol propionate on your scalp

If you use clobetasol propionate in its ointment or solution form, you typically need to apply the medication to your scalp twice per day, preferably in the morning and the evening, until your symptoms improve.

Here are some steps you can follow to correctly apply the medication to your scalp:

1. Wash your hands.
2. If using a solution, shake the bottle well.
3. Unscrew the cap and place the nozzle directly on your scalp.
4. Squeeze the container and cover the area with a thin layer of medication, making sure you do not use more than the recommended amount.
5. If necessary, spread the medication on your skin following the direction your hair grows.
6. Leave to dry.
7. Wash your hands.

If you use a clobetasol shampoo, you typically have to use it once per day. It has a typical dosage of 7.5 milliliters (ml). To use this medication, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Apply the clobetasol shampoo to your dry scalp, using only the recommended amount of medication.
3. Massage and cover the affected areas of your scalp with the shampoo.
4. Wash your hands after applying the shampoo.
5. Leave the shampoo to work for 15 minutes, leaving your scalp uncovered.
6. Rinse the shampoo with water, avoiding contact with your eyes.
7. Wash your hands.
8. Dry your hair.

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What are the side effects of clobetasol propionate?

Clobetasol propionate may cause several side effects, including:

• itching
• redness
• burning sensation
• skin irritation or dryness of the skin
• bruising or shiny skin
• skin thinning
• small red or white bumps on the skin
• changes in skin color

You should contact a doctor or healthcare professional if you experience any of these symptoms and they do not go away.

You must immediately contact an urgent care center if you experience any serious side effects, such as:

• severe rash
• skin sores
• signs of skin infection to the area you applied the clobetasol propionate ointment, such as swelling or pus
• muscle weakness
• sudden weight gain
• changes to how fat is spread around your body
• unusual tiredness
• irritability
• depression

Are there any clobetasol propionate drug interactions?

Let your doctor or healthcare professional know if you’re using corticosteroids. You should not use clobetasol propionate alongside other corticosteroids, like methylprednisolone (Medrol), prednisone (Prelone), or dexamethasone (Decadron).

You should also advise doctors if you’re currently taking other medications, supplements, or herbs. This is because clobetasol propionate may interact with these or other supplements. Interactions may also prevent clobetasol propionate from working effectively.

What are some clobetasol propionate alternatives?

Alternative corticosteroid ointments may help treat the condition affecting your scalp. If you experience undesired side effects after using clobetasol propionate, you can speak with a doctor and find out what other options you have to treat your skin.

Alternatives to clobetasol propionate may include:

• medicated shampoos
• topical corticosteroid ointments
• coal tar
• tazarotene (Tazorac)
• scale softeners
• calcipotriene (Calcitrene)

Summary

Clobetasol propionate is a potent topical corticosteroid that doctors may prescribe for treating eczema and psoriasis. This medication may not be suitable for everyone as it may cause some complications, including hyperglycemia.

You’ll typically apply clobetasol propionate twice each day directly on the patch of skin that requires treatment.

This medication may cause side effects, such as skin discoloration, burning, and itching. If the side effects persist or you experience any skin infection symptoms, you should contact a doctor or healthcare professional as soon as possible.

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