Dermovate

What is Dermovate?

Dermovate is a topical corticosteroid that uses a medicine called clobetasol propionate. It belongs to the most potent class of topical steroids, which can help with symptoms caused by a range of skin diseases. For lichen planus, it can reduce swelling, irritation, itchiness, and redness.

Lichen planus is a skin condition that causes itchy, reddish-purple, raised, and flat bumps on the body. Using topical treatments like corticosteroids can help manage these symptoms, but lichen planus often clears up by itself between nine and eighteen months.

How does Dermovate work?

When your skin becomes inflamed because of an allergic reaction, various chemicals widen your blood vessels and cause your skin to become irritated, red, itchy, and swollen. Topical corticosteroids, like Dermovate (clobetasol), are effective at reducing inflammation because they inhibit the production of cytokines (a small protein) in your immune cells, which play a role in causing the reaction. They’re used for their anti-inflammatory, anti-itch properties and can help narrow blood vessels to help with swelling. ^[1]

Which Dermovate is right for me?

If lichen planus is affecting your scalp, you’ll be prescribed the scalp application, which you apply directly to the affected area. The cream is better suited for skin that is moist or weeping, whereas the ointment is thicker and greasier, so it’s better for dry or flaky skin. Once your clinician has examined your skin, they’ll be able to recommend which ones are best for you.

What are the ingredients in Dermovate?

Dermovate’s main active ingredient is clobetasol propionate. Each gram contains 0.5 mg of clobetasol propionate, which is equivalent to 0.05% w/w. The other ingredients in the ointment are propylene glycol, sorbitan sesquioleate, and white soft paraffin. And the inactive ingredients in Dermovate cream are cetostearyl alcohol, arlacel 165, propylene glycol, glyceryl monostearate 40-55, beeswax substitute 6621, sodium citrate, citric acid, chlorocresol, and purified water.

How to use Dermovate

To use Dermovate:

• wash your hands before and after using
• use one fingertip unit for each affected area
• apply a thin layer of Dermovate once or twice a day
• gently rub Dermovate into your skin until it’s all disappeared
• if you’re applying a moisturiser as well, wait for the Dermovate to be absorbed first

How long does Dermovate take to work?

For most cases of lichen planus, it can clear up by itself within nine to eighteen months. Using a topical corticosteroid can help speed up this healing process. Usually, after it’s cleared up, the rash won’t return. So it’s best to follow the guidelines given by your clinician. The active ingredient in Dermovate, clobetasol, can start to work after a few days, and you shouldn’t use it for more than four weeks. ^[1]

What happens if I make a mistake using Dermovate?

If you apply too much or accidentally ingest it, seek urgent medical attention. If you forget to apply Dermovate, use it as soon as you remember, but if it’s close to the next time you were supposed to apply it, just wait until then. Make sure to use it exactly as your clinician has advised you to, because if you stop suddenly it can make your rash worse.