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What is clobetasol propionate cream used for? Uses and side effects

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Aug 7, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Clobetasol propionate cream may be used to treat moderate-to-severe eczema, plaque psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions, such as lichen sclerosus. Because it is a super potent topical steroid, clobetasol propionate treatment should not exceed two weeks, and no more than 50g should be applied over one week. This prescription steroid cream is not recommended in children under 12 years of age, and the treated skin area should never be covered with occlusive bandages or airtight dressings. Common clobetasol propionate brand names include Cormax, Embeline, and Temovate cream.

What NOT to Use Clobetasol Propionate For

Clobetasol propionate topical steroid should NOT be used on the face, or to treat:

Do not use clobetasol propionate steroid cream to treat any dermatological condition that has not been diagnosed by your dermatologist or healthcare provider.

Important Clobetasol Propionate Safety Information

Always use the lowest potency topical corticosteroid appropriate for your specific skin condition. Because clobetasol propionate is classified as a super-potent corticosteroid medication, it may not always be the appropriate treatment for your skin condition.

Clobetasol Propionate Symptom Relief

Clobetasol propionate cream effectively reduces skin inflammation (redness and swelling) and relieves itching sensations. This topical steroid medication can also treat skin dryness, crusting, scaling, and discomfort caused by various dermatological conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin disorders.

Related questions

How Potent is Clobetasol Propionate? Super Potent Steroid Classification

Clobetasol propionate ranks among the most potent topical corticosteroids available for prescription use. It is classified as super potent on the topical steroid potency scale. The potency of corticosteroid medications can vary depending on active ingredient concentration and formulation type (ointment, spray, cream, gel). Different brand names containing identical corticosteroid concentrations may still differ in therapeutic potency and effectiveness.

Other Super Potent Topical Corticosteroids Include:

Clobetasol Propionate Side Effects

Common clobetasol propionate side effects may include:

Serious side effects can occur with overuse or long-term application, including absorption into the bloodstream leading to systemic corticosteroid effects. Always follow prescribed dosage instructions and treatment duration recommendations from your healthcare provider.

References

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