Clobetasol propionate is a potent corticosteroid commonly prescribed to treat inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis. It works by reducing redness, itching, and swelling caused by inflammation in the skin.

This medication is available in several topical forms, including cream, ointment, foam, solution, spray, and shampoo, all containing clobetasol propionate 0.05%. It is usually applied twice a day for short treatment periods to avoid side effects from prolonged use.

Clobetasol propionate should be used under medical supervision, as overuse may cause skin thinning or hormonal changes. A dermatologist may recommend follow-up visits to monitor progress and adjust treatment or prescribe other medications if symptoms do not improve.

What is it used for?

Clobetasol propionate is used for the treatment of the following skin conditions:

Clobetasol can also be prescribed for cases of dermatitis that respond to treatment with corticosteroids, as advised by a doctor. Off-label uses include the treatment of lichen planus and discoid lupus erythematosus.

Clobetasol propionate should be used as prescribed with continuous monitoring so that the response to treatment and any side effects can be assessed.

How to use

Clobetasol propionate is a topical medication that is applied directly to affected skin.

Clobetasol dosing depends on the type that is prescribed, which can include:

1. Clobetasol ointment or cream 0.05%

Clobetasol ointment or cream 0.05% can be used by adults, as prescribed.

Apply a thin layer to affected skin twice daily for no more than 2 consecutive weeks. Do not exceed a total of 50 g per week from all high-potency clobetasol products combined.

After symptoms improve, the doctor should reduce the frequency of application or switch to another, less potent corticosteroid.

It is important to wait for the ointment to be completely absorbed before applying moisturizer on the skin.

2. Clobetasol scalp solution 0.05%

Clobetasol scalp solution 0.05% is indicated for the treatment of corticosteroid-responsive scalp dermatoses in adults, as prescribed.

Apply a thin film to the affected area of the scalp twice daily for no more than 2 consecutive weeks. Do not exceed 50 mL per week from combined high-potency formulations. This alcohol-based solution is flammable; keep away from heat or flame and avoid smoking until fully dry.

3. Clobetasol foam 0.05%

Clobetasol foam 0.05% can be prescribed for corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses, including scalp involvement, in adults.

Apply a thin layer twice daily to affected areas for no more than 2 consecutive weeks. Do not exceed 50 g per week from all high-potency clobetasol products combined. Foam is flammable; keep away from heat or flame and avoid smoking until fully dry.

4. Clobetasol shampoo 0.05%

Clobetasol propionate shampoo 0.05% is indicated only for adults for the treatment of moderate to severe scalp psoriasis (and may be used in seborrheic dermatitis per clinical judgment).

The normally recommended doses for adults are:

Seborrheic dermatitis on the scalp: during active outbreaks, clobetasol shampoo can be used as directed by the doctor, typically not exceeding 50 mL per week and not beyond 4 weeks without medical reassessment.
Scalp psoriasis: the recommended dose is 1 application of clobetasol shampoo per day (apply to dry scalp once daily; leave on for 15 minutes, then lather with water and rinse thoroughly). Total weekly amount should not exceed 50 mL.

To apply clobetasol shampoo, be sure your hair is dry. Move the hair aside to expose affected skin, and apply a small amount of the shampoo to the area, spreading it evenly and massaging gently.

Leave the shampoo on the scalp to act for 15 minutes and then add a little water to the area to massage until foam forms. Then rinse your hair with plenty of water and use your usual shampoo.

It is important to wash your entire body and hands after removing the shampoo from your hair. Avoid getting the shampoo on your face, eyes and lips. Treatment with clobetasol shampoo should generally not exceed 4 weeks without medical reassessment. Do not exceed a total of 50 mL per week.

5. Clobetasol spray 0.05%

Clobetasol propionate spray 0.05% is indicated for adults for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and other corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses, as prescribed.

The recommended dose is a thin layer sprayed on the affected skin twice daily and gently massaged until absorbed, for no more than 2 consecutive weeks. Do not exceed a total of 50 mL per week from all high-potency clobetasol products combined.

To apply the spray, the skin must be clean and dry. This alcohol-based spray is flammable; avoid use near heat sources, open flame or while smoking, and store away from heat and sunlight.

Care during treatment

During treatment with clobetasol, it is important to follow certain precautions, such as:

Avoid exposing affected skin to sunlight.
Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher as recommended by your dermatologist. Be sure to apply even on cloudy days, as the skin may become more sensitive to the sun during treatment.
Avoid washing or wetting the treated area immediately after application unless directed by your doctor.
Do not apply this medication to skin with open wounds or ulcers.
Do not apply to mucous membranes, such as eyes, nose, mouth or genitals. For external use only. Not for ophthalmic, oral, or intravaginal use. Avoid the face, groin or underarms unless directed by a doctor.
Do not cover the treated area of skin unless instructed to do so by your doctor, as covering the skin may increase the absorption of clobetasol and cause side effects.
Do not use on untreated bacterial, fungal or viral skin infections (for example, impetigo, ringworm, shingles, chickenpox). Wash hands after applying unless treating the hands.

Additionally, it is important to wash your hands after using clobetasol propionate, except in cases where it is used to treat the skin on your hands.

Possible side effects

The most common local side effects of clobetasol propionate are itching, pain, burning, stinging, dryness, irritation, redness, folliculitis, contact dermatitis, cracking skin or changes in skin pigmentation (including hypopigmentation), acneiform eruptions, striae, skin atrophy, telangiectasia and secondary skin infections.

Although it is less common, skin atrophy, stretch marks or thin purple, red or bluish vessels (referred to as telangiectasia) may also appear on the skin.

Systemic effects are rare but can occur with excessive use or absorption of high-potency topical steroids, and may include adrenal suppression, Cushing’s syndrome, high blood sugar, weight gain, mood changes, blurred vision, glaucoma or cataracts. Seek medical attention if you experience vision changes, persistent swelling or signs of infection.

In children, the use of clobetasol propionate can interfere with the child’s growth, development or weight gain, which is why treatment should be continuously monitored by a pediatrician. The duration of treatment should be as short as possible.

You should notify your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as blurred vision, eye pain, increased thirst, urinary urgency, dry mouth, weight gain, facial swelling, muscle weakness, depression, anxiety or irritability.

Contraindications for use

Clobetasol propionate should not be used in cases of rosacea, acne vulgaris, itchy skin that is not inflamed, genital itching, perianal itching, or untreated skin infections. During pregnancy and lactation, clobetasol propionate should only be used if approved by your doctor, after evaluating the benefits of the treatment for the woman and potential risks for the baby. If no improvement is seen within 2 weeks (for most formulations), consult your doctor.

Clobetasol shampoo and spray should not be used by pediatric patients. Most formulations are not established for children under 12 years. Use depends on a doctor’s prescription and product labeling.

Brand names (U.S.)

In the United States, clobetasol propionate 0.05% is available under brand names such as Temovate® (cream/ointment), Clobex® (spray, solution, shampoo), and Olux® (foam), as well as generic versions. Non-U.S. brand names should be avoided in FDA-focused content.

Clobetasol Propionate: Uses, Types, Doses & Side Effects