When you’re struggling with hair loss, daily life can be incredibly difficult. You’ve researched hair extensions and clip-in hair. You’ve looked into wigs and toupees. You’ve mastered the art of the combover and wearing hats at all times. But those are all short-term solutions and you’re looking for a hair loss treatment that’s more long-term.
While researching medications which could provide some relief, you’ve found mentions of clobetasol propionate and your interest is piqued.
This medication has been used to treat a variety of skin conditions including dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis for many years. In recent years it’s been found that using clobetasol propionate for hair loss is incredibly effective.
It is a corticosteroid of the glucocorticoid class and reduces the swelling, itching, and redness usually associated with those types of conditions. It comes in various presentations including shampoo, mousse, ointment, and creams. So, here is everything you need to know about it.
What is clobetasol propionate used for?
In addition to the skin conditions mentioned above, it is also used to treat autoimmune diseases including alopecia areata, lichen sclerosus, and lichen planus. This medication is a strong, high potency corticosteroid.
What is clobetasol propionate cream used for and what does it treat?
This is a topical cream which can be used for the treatment all of the above-mentioned skin conditions and well as hair loss. It can cause extreme hair growth – that likely sounds positive to you right now. It also contains a number of other ingredients including citric acid, purified water, sodium citrate, and white wax.
What is clobetasol propionate 0.05 used for?
This medication is usually prescribed with a strength of 0.05. One gram of clobetasol propionate 0.05 cream contains 0.5mg of the active ingredient. Applying the cream directly onto the scalp will assist with treating hair loss as well as psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.
How to use clobetasol propionate cream
Wash and dry your hands before using. Ensure the affected area is completely dry. Apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected area and gently rub it into the skin. Use it two to three times daily.
The total amount applied shouldn’t be more than 50g each week. Take care to avoid it coming into contact with the nose, mouth, eyes and any areas of open skin. If the cream does get into those areas, rinse well with plenty of water. After applying the cream, wash and dry your hands thoroughly immediately afterward. It’s important that you use this medication only for the specific treatment of hair loss unless otherwise prescribed by a doctor.
What are the side effects?
Like all medications, clobetasol propionate does come with some side effects. These could include burning, stinging, itching, dryness or redness of the area of application when first applied. Other side effects could include stretch marks, skin thinning or discoloration, acne or folliculitis (hair bumps). It’s also possible that skin infections could become worse when using this medication.
In rare cases, it’s possible that the medication is absorbed from the skin into the bloodstream. This is more likely to occur in children and in those who use the medication for a long period of time. It’s also possible that you might experience tiredness, weight loss, headaches, and vision problems. An allergic reaction can occur. Contact your doctor right away if you notice signs of itching, swelling, dizziness, and trouble breathing.
These side effects could disappear within a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. As with all medication, if any of these side effects continue for a longer period of time or worsen, it’s important that you contact your doctor immediately. It’s not common to experience serious side effects when using this medication.
Precautions when using this medication
Before using it be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to corticosteroids or if you have any other allergies. Ensure you’ve told your doctor or pharmacist your full medical history before you begin using it. This is especially important if you have suffered from poor blood circulation, certain skin conditions like rosacea or perioral dermatitis or immune system problems.
There is no reason to struggle with the confidence and esteem issues that come with hair loss. By using a medication like clobetasol propionate, your hair will soon grow in and you’ll be feeling like yourself again.
Revision 28.2.2021 – 404 link removed
