Has your doctor prescribed betamethasone for your psoriasis? Here’s what you need to know about this topical medication to make sure you use it correctly and effectively.

What’s Betamethasone?

Betamethasone is a corticosteroid that's sometimes used to treat psoriasis. It’s applied topically (to the skin), usually as a gel, cream, lotion, ointment, or spray. Betamethasone is also available in different strengths. Sometimes, it’s combined with a form of vitamin D called calcipotriene. You’ll need a prescription from a doctor to get betamethasone.

Betamethasone works by blocking certain chemicals from being released in your skin. These are more common when the skin is irritated, like during a psoriasis flare. Betamethasone helps reduce itching, swelling, and skin discoloration.

Calcipotriene works by slowing down the growth of skin cells. This can help with psoriasis, too.

Can You Use Betamethasone on Psoriasis?

Betamethasone — with or without calcipotriene — is safe to use on psoriasis. There is evidence that combining betamethasone with calcipotriene is more effective at treating psoriasis than either option used alone. These medications are usually used for people with mild to moderate psoriasis.

Some studies have compared different forms of betamethasone. In one study, 77 percent of people who used the foam reported that their scalp psoriasis was clear or almost clear after 28 days, compared to 47 percent of people who used the lotion.

Which Is Better, Hydrocortisone or Betamethasone?

Hydrocortisone is another type of topical steroid. You can buy lower-strength versions over the counter, while stronger versions require a prescription from your healthcare provider.

Betamethasone is stronger than hydrocortisone, but it isn’t better or worse. If you can control your psoriasis with a milder steroid, then hydrocortisone may be a better option for you. But if you need something stronger, betamethasone may be a good option.

Where Should You Not Apply Betamethasone?

Avoid applying products that contain betamethasone to sensitive areas such as your eyes, mouth, or genitals. Never use betamethasone on broken or damaged skin.

If you’re using a product with calcipotriene, also avoid using it under your arms, on your face, or on your groin.

Potential Risks of Betamethasone

Betamethasone can cause some side effects, including:

• Skin damage, like thinner or easily bruised skin
• Dry skin, blisters, cracks, flakes, or irritated skin
• Flushing or warm skin over the affected area
• Burning, stinging, or itching
• Lighter or darker patches of skin
• Bumps under your skin that fill with pus
• Acne
• Extra hair where the medicine is applied

Call your doctor right away if you see signs of skin infection, such as pus or yellow fluid coming from your skin. Otherwise, reach out for medical help if you can’t tolerate the side effects or if your psoriasis comes back within two weeks after you stop using betamethasone.

Which Steroid Is Best for Psoriasis?

There’s no single steroid that works for every person with psoriasis. The best treatment is the one that works for you. You may need to try several before you find the right fit. If you’re not getting results, talk to a healthcare professional about what to try next.

There are many topical steroids for psoriasis, including strong ones like fluocinonide and clobetasol. Always follow your doctor’s directions when using a topical steroid for psoriasis. If you have any questions about the medicine, ask, to make sure you’re using the medication correctly.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyPsoriasisTeam is the social network for people with psoriasis, and their loved ones. On MyPsoriasisTeam, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with psoriasis.

Do you use betamethasone for your psoriasis? How has it helped? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.