Desonide cream is a topical corticosteroid used to treat dermatitis, inflamed insect bites, and intertrigo. It helps relieve skin swelling, redness, and itching.
This medication is available by prescription as desonide cream or ointment, usually in a 0.05% strength. Desonide is also available in other topical forms, including gel, foam, and lotion.
Availability and approved uses may vary by product, so each formulation should be used according to its prescribing information. Desonide should only be used as directed by a healthcare provider, as incorrect, excessive, or prolonged use may cause side effects.
Main uses
Desonide is used to treat:
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Inflamed insect bites
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Other mild inflammatory skin conditions
Desonide should not be applied to the eyes, mouth, or vagina. It is intended for skin conditions that respond to corticosteroids and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
How to apply
Desonide should be applied in a thin layer to the affected skin. Excessive or prolonged use should be avoided.
1. Desonide ointment
Desonide ointment 0.05% is generally more suitable for dry or scaly areas of skin.
Apply a thin layer 1 to 2 times a day, or as prescribed. Treatment may last from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the condition.
Do not apply the ointment to large areas of the body or cover it with an airtight dressing unless instructed by a healthcare provider.
2. Desonide cream
Desonide cream 0.05% is generally more suitable for inflamed skin conditions in moist areas.
Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin 1 to 2 times a day, gently rubbing it in until fully absorbed.
Use the cream only for the length of time prescribed by a healthcare provider. Avoid continuous use without medical reassessment to reduce the risk of local side effects.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects of desonide include dry skin, itching, irritation, redness, and a stinging or burning sensation where the medication was applied.
In some cases, it may also cause inflammation of the hair follicles, known as folliculitis, acne, or changes in skin pigmentation. Less commonly, stretch marks may develop when desonide is used excessively or for an extended period.
Systemic side effects are rare but may occur when desonide is used for long periods, applied to large areas of skin, or covered with an airtight dressing. According to the National Library of Medicine, these factors can increase systemic absorption and may require evaluation for hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression.
Contraindications for use
Desonide should not be used by anyone who is allergic to desonide or any other ingredient in the product.
It should not be applied to skin affected by untreated infections, such as cutaneous tuberculosis, syphilis, herpes simplex, or chickenpox, as corticosteroids may make these conditions worse.
During pregnancy or breastfeeding, desonide should only be used under medical supervision if the expected benefits outweigh the potential risks.
It should also not be applied to the genital area, used on large areas of the body, or used for extended periods unless directed by a healthcare provider.