Steroid Cream Comparison Tool
Betnovate (Betamethasone)
Best For: Moderate-to-severe eczema, psoriasis, allergic dermatitis
Side Effects: Skin thinning, stretch marks, HPA-axis suppression
Cost: $12-$20 (30g)
Hydrocortisone
Best For: Mild rashes, insect bites, minor eczema
Side Effects: Minimal; occasional irritation
Cost: $4-$8 (30g)
Clobetasol
Best For: Severe psoriasis, lichen planus
Side Effects: Significant thinning, telangiectasia
Cost: $25-$40 (30g)
Mometasone
Best For: Atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis
Side Effects: Moderate thinning, burning sensation
Cost: $10-$18 (30g)
Desonide
Best For: Facial eczema, intertrigo
Side Effects: Very low; occasional irritation
Cost: $6-$12 (30g)
When your skin erupts with itchy, inflamed patches, the first thing you reach for is often a potent steroid cream. Betnovate is a household name, but is it always the best choice? This guide compares Betnovate (betamethasone) with the most common alternatives, helping you decide which ointment fits your condition, budget, and safety needs.
Quick Take
- Betnovate is a high‑potency, prescription‑only corticosteroid.
- Hydrocortisone offers the mildest effect and is available over‑the‑counter.
- Clobetasol propionate is the strongest prescription steroid, used for severe psoriasis.
- Mometasone furoate balances potency and safety, suitable for many eczema cases.
- Triamcinolone acetonide and Desonide fill the mid‑range potency gap.
What Is Betnovate?
Betnovate is a brand name for betamethasone valerate, a mid‑to‑high‑potency topical corticosteroid. First approved in the 1970s, it quickly became a go‑to for dermatologists treating eczema, psoriasis, and allergic contact dermatitis. The cream is typically prescribed for short courses (one to two weeks) because prolonged use can thin the skin, cause stretch marks, or trigger systemic absorption.
How Betnovate Works
Betamethasone belongs to the glucocorticoid class. It binds to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, altering gene expression to suppress inflammation, reduce vasodilation, and limit immune cell activity. This triple action eases redness, itching, and swelling. However, the same mechanism can also diminish the skin’s natural barrier if overused.
Topical Corticosteroids: A Quick Primer
Topical steroids are classified by potency, ranging from Class1 (super‑high) to Class7 (very low). Potency depends on the active ingredient, concentration, and vehicle (cream, ointment, lotion). Below is a snapshot of where each common steroid sits on the scale:
| Drug (Brand) | Potency Class | Prescription Level | Typical Uses | Common Side Effects | Average Cost (US) - 30g |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Betnovate | Class3-4 (mid‑high) | Prescription | Eczema, psoriasis, allergic dermatitis | Skin thinning, stretch marks, HPA‑axis suppression | $12-$20 |
| Hydrocortisone | Class6-7 (low) | OTC | Minor rashes, insect bites, mild eczema | Minimal; occasional skin irritation | $4-$8 |
| Clobetasol Propionate | Class1 (super‑high) | Prescription | Severe psoriasis, lichen planus, resistant eczema | Significant thinning, telangiectasia, systemic effects | $25-$40 |
| Mometasone Furoate | Class2-3 (mid‑potency) | Prescription (some OTC 0.1% in UK) | Atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis | Moderate thinning, burning sensation | $10-$18 |
| Triamcinolone Acetonide | Class3 (mid‑potency) | Prescription | Eczema, discoid lupus, steroid‑responsive eruptions | Skin atrophy, hypopigmentation | $9-$15 |
| Desonide | Class6 (low‑mid) | Prescription (OTC in some regions) | Facial eczema, intertrigo, perioral dermatitis | Very low; occasional irritation | $6-$12 |
Comparing Betnovate with the Main Alternatives
Below we break down the practical differences you’ll notice when swapping Betnovate for another cream.
- Potency and Speed of Relief - If you need fast, dramatic reduction of inflammation (e.g., a flare‑up of plaque psoriasis), Clobetasol’s Class1 strength outperforms Betnovate. For milder eczema, Hydrocortisone or Desonide may suffice and carry far less risk.
- Prescription Requirements - Betnovate, Mometasone, Triamcinolone, and Clobetasol all need a doctor’s script in the U.S. Hydrocortisone is the only truly OTC option, making it the most accessible for occasional use.
- Side‑Effect Profile - The higher the potency, the higher the chance of skin thinning, stretch marks, and systemic absorption. Betnovate sits in a sweet spot: strong enough for many conditions but not as aggressive as Clobetasol.
- Cost Considerations - Generic betamethasone cream is reasonably priced, but if you’re on a tight budget, Hydrocortisone or Desonide can cut costs by more than half.
- Application Area - Thin‑skinned zones (face, groin) demand low‑potency steroids like Desonide or Hydrocortisone to avoid irritation. Betnovate is best reserved for body or limb plaques where the skin is thicker.
When to Choose Betnovate Over Others
If you have moderate‑to‑severe eczema that hasn’t responded to low‑potency options, Betnovate’s mid‑high potency offers a stronger anti‑inflammatory punch without the harsh side‑effects of super‑high steroids. It’s also a go‑to for short‑term treatment of scalp psoriasis, where the vehicle (cream) can penetrate hair shafts more effectively than ointments.
When Another Steroid Might Be Better
Consider these scenarios:
- Very mild rash or contact dermatitis - Hydrocortisone 1% will likely clear it in a few days, sparing you a prescription.
- Facial eczema or steroid‑sensitive skin - Desonide’s low potency minimizes the risk of atrophy.
- Severe plaque psoriasis or lichen planus - Clobetasol propionate can bring rapid remission where Betnovate may fall short.
- Need for a balanced, once‑daily option - Mometasone furoate offers half‑day dosing with comparable efficacy to Betnovate.
How to Use Betnovate (and Its Alternatives) Safely
- Clean the affected area with lukewarm water; pat dry.
- Apply a thin layer (about the size of a pea) to the lesion.
- Rub gently until fully absorbed; avoid covering with airtight dressings unless instructed.
- Follow the prescribed duration-usually 1-2weeks. Do not exceed 4weeks without medical review.
- Monitor for signs of thinning, visible blood vessels, or worsening redness. Stop use and contact a clinician if any appear.
- For long‑term management, rotate to a lower‑potency steroid (e.g., Desonide) for maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Betnovate safe for children?
Betnovate can be used in children over 2years, but only for short periods and under strict medical supervision. Kids have higher skin absorption, so dermatologists often start with a milder steroid like hydrocortisone before moving up.
Can I combine Betnovate with moisturizers?
Yes. Apply the steroid first, let it soak in for a few minutes, then layer a fragrance‑free moisturizer. This helps restore the skin barrier and may reduce the amount of steroid needed.
How does Betnovate compare to over‑the‑counter hydrocortisone?
Betnovate is roughly 10-15 times stronger than 1% hydrocortisone, delivering faster relief for moderate‑to‑severe inflammation. However, the trade‑off is a higher risk of skin thinning if used too long.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Apply it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule-don’t double up.
Are there any drug interactions with Betnovate?
Topical steroids rarely interact systemically, but using them with other potent steroids (oral or inhaled) can increase the chance of systemic cortisol suppression. Always inform your doctor about all medications.
Choosing the right steroid cream is a balance of potency, safety, and cost. Betnovate sits in the middle-strong enough for many stubborn skin conditions yet not as risky as the super‑high options. By weighing your specific symptoms, treatment duration, and any underlying health concerns, you can pick the most suitable alternative and keep your skin healthy.
