Betnovate Cream vs Ointment: Which One Should You Pick?

If you’ve been prescribed Betnovate, you’ve probably wondered whether the cream or the ointment is better for your rash. Both contain the same active steroid, betamethasone dipropionate, but the vehicle – the cream or the ointment – changes how the medicine behaves on your skin. Let’s break down the basics so you can choose the right form for your condition.

How Betnovate Cream Works

Betnovate cream is a lightweight, water‑based formula. It spreads easily, dries quickly, and feels less greasy. Because it absorbs faster, it’s ideal for moist or weepy lesions, like eczema flares on the face, scalp, or armpits. The cream’s thin layer lets the steroid reach inflamed tissue without trapping sweat, which can make the rash feel sticky.

One thing to remember: the cream can be a bit drying on already cracked skin. If you notice extra tightness or peeling, you might need a richer base or a short break from the product.

When to Reach for Betnovate Ointment

The ointment is oil‑based, so it’s thicker and leaves a protective film over the area. This film locks in moisture, making the ointment perfect for dry, scaly patches such as psoriasis plaques or cracked elbows. The occlusive layer also boosts the steroid’s penetration, giving a stronger anti‑inflammatory effect with the same amount of active ingredient.

Because it stays on longer, the ointment can feel greasy, especially on hair‑free zones like the hands or feet. If you’re applying it to a large surface, you might prefer the cream to avoid a shiny, uncomfortable residue.

In practice, many doctors will start you on the cream for sensitive areas and switch to the ointment for tougher, drier spots. The key is to match the vehicle to the skin’s condition, not just pick one randomly.

Here are some quick rules of thumb:

  • Face, neck, scalp: Betnovate cream – light, non‑greasy, easy to wash off.
  • Elbows, knees, feet: Betnovate ointment – seals in moisture, works harder on thick skin.
  • Open weeping sores: Cream, because the ointment’s film can trap fluid.
  • Very dry, cracked skin: Ointment, for extra hydration.

Regardless of the form, follow the prescribed amount – usually a fingertip unit (about 0.5 g) for an adult palm‑size area. Over‑applying won’t speed up healing and can increase the risk of steroid side effects, like thinning skin or stretch marks.

Safety tips:

  • Wash your hands before and after applying.
  • Avoid covering the treated area with tight bandages unless your doctor says so.
  • Never use Betnovate on infected skin without a doctor's OK – steroids can mask infection signs.
  • Check for signs of irritation (burning, itching) and stop using if they appear.

Bottom line: both Betnovate cream and ointment are effective; the choice hinges on the type of skin problem you have. If you’re still unsure, ask your pharmacist or GP – they can help you pick the right form and show you the proper amount to use.

Need more detailed guidance? Browse our other posts on skin conditions, steroid safety, and how to buy medications online safely in the UK. We’ve got step‑by‑step checklists and FAQs to keep you confident about every prescription.