Elocon

Elocon is a powerful topical steroid used to treat and manage inflammatory skin conditions like dermatitis. Dermatitis is a term for conditions that lead to skin inflammation, including seborrheic dermatitis and eczema. When inflammation gets severe, steroids are often needed for treatment.

Steroids are medicines that help reduce inflammation, easing symptoms such as swelling, redness, and itching. While we don't fully understand how they work, it's thought that they might prevent the activation of cells that cause inflammation.

Dermatitis symptoms often include swelling, raised bumps, itching, and redness. Mometasone furoate, the active ingredient in Elocon, can help manage these symptoms. While we don't know exactly how it works, some studies suggest it can activate pathways that reduce inflammation. It may do this by stopping mast cells, which cause inflammation, from becoming active.

Elocon is available in just a 0.1% dose, and you can choose from a cream, ointment, or scalp lotion. The ointment is thicker and oilier, which makes it better for dry skin. The scalp lotion, as you might guess, is designed specifically for use on the scalp. Apart from these differences, there's not much else that sets them apart.

Elocon cream and ointment aren't suitable for use on the scalp. For this purpose, you should use Elocon scalp solution, which is specifically made for the scalp. It contains the same active ingredient, mometasone furoate, in the same concentration as the cream and ointment. The key differences are in the formulation and the applicator, which is designed to make it easier to apply to the scalp.

Common treatments for dermatitis usually involve a mix of steroids and emollients.

Steroids are medicines that help reduce inflammation and can be used to treat various skin conditions. They are available in different forms and strengths, and the type you receive will depend on how severe your dermatitis is and where it is located. For mild dermatitis, you might be given hydrocortisone, which is a gentler steroid. However, if your condition is more severe, your healthcare professional might prescribe Elocon or Betnovate.

Emollients are moisturising treatments that can help with dry skin. They usually have gentle, hydrating ingredients and don't include harsh chemicals that might irritate your skin. It's important to use emollients alongside steroids, as this can help your skin heal faster and restore its natural barrier.

No, Elocon can only be obtained with a prescription from a clinician. This ensures that your clinician can confirm it's safe and appropriate for you to use.