Betnovate 0.1% Scalp Application 100ml
- Effective treatment for scalp conditions like dermatitis and eczema.
- Works to treat dry, itchy and irritated skin.
- Easy-to apply treatment that reduces inflammation.
What is Betnovate 0.1% scalp application?
Betnovate 0.1% scalp application is a topical corticosteroid containing the active ingredient betamethasone valerate. A topical corticosteroid just means that it’s an anti-inflammatory medicine that is applied to your skin. Betnovate 0.1% is classed as ‘potent’ (strong) and is sometimes recommended if over-the-counter options haven’t worked.
What is Betnovate 0.1% scalp application used for?
Betnovate 0.1% scalp application is used to treat skin on your scalp that is dry, itchy or irritated. This treatment can help people with skin conditions like:
Betnovate scalp application vs cream
Whether you should use Betnovate scalp application or Betnovate cream depends on what type of skin you have.
Creams are better for skin that is moist and weepy, while lotions are best used when treating large, or hairier, areas of skin as it’s not oily and dries quickly.
If you’re looking at topical corticosteroids, you may also come across ointments. These are thicker and greasier, making them better for dry or flaky areas of skin. Ointments are made for skin on the body, not the scalp.
How does Betnovate scalp application work?
Betnovate scalp application works to reduce the inflammation in the skin. When skin is inflamed, chemicals are released in the skin. They make your blood vessels widen, causing your skin to become swollen, itchy or painful.
The treatment works inside your skin’s cells to stop these chemicals being released, reducing swelling, redness and itching. It does this by mimicking natural cortisol to suppress overactive immune responses.
How long does it take to work?
Your skin should start getting better within just a few days. Importantly, this treatment is not intended for long-term use and usually doesn’t need to be applied for more than two to three weeks.
The NHS suggests that if you’ve not noticed any improvement after four weeks of using this treatment, you should speak to your doctor.
How to use Betnovate scalp application
When starting to use Betnovate, it’s generally advised that you apply the lotion twice a day (morning and night), for as long as you’ve been prescribed.
To apply Betnovate, you should then:
- Wash your hands.
- Apply a thin layer over the area of the scalp that needs to be treated – you don’t have to rub it in.
- Your scalp will feel cool until the liquid has dried. You should allow it to dry naturally.
- Wash your hands again afterwards.
If you routinely wash your hair, make sure to do so before using Betnovate. You’ll also then need to thoroughly dry your hair before applying your treatment. This is so it’s got enough time to absorb into the skin and isn’t washed off.
Betnovate Scalp is flammable, so don’t use a hairdryer directly after applying and keep your scalp away from any other sources of heat like electric fires and cigarettes.
Betnovate side effects
Like all medicines, Betnovate can cause side effects in some people. However, many people don’t experience any side effects at all, or, if they do, the side effects are only minor.
A common side effect is a slight burning or stinging feeling when they apply the solution. This goes after a few minutes and usually stops happening when you’ve been using it for a few days.
For a complete list, including rarer side effects, read the patient information leaflet.
Does Betnovate cause hair loss?
No, but it can actually do the opposite. An uncommon side effect of using Betnovate Scalp can be hair growth – though this is not intended as a hair growth treatment. There are other clinical options if you’re looking for appropriate treatments for hair loss.
Who shouldn’t use Betnovate scalp application?
Most adults over the age of 18 can use Betnovate, but there are times that it shouldn’t be used. To make sure it’s safe for you, tell your pharmacist during your consultation if you:
- have ever had an allergic reaction to betamethasone or any other medicine
- are breastfeeding
- have a skin infection
- have broken skin, cuts, or itchy skin that is not inflamed or red
Storage information
Betnovate Scalp Application should be stored below 25°C, away from direct heat and light. As it is flammable, it must be kept away from naked flames and other sources of ignition.
Keep the container tightly closed when not in use and store it out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use the product after the expiry date printed on the label, and do not dispose of it via wastewater or household waste.
Alternatives to Betnovate scalp application
Prescription-strength treatments like Betnovate are more likely to cause potential side effects, so it’s recommended that you try over-the-counter alternatives first to see if they work for you.
There are some non-prescription treatments, such as shampoos, that can treat dry scalp:
As for prescription-only alternatives, Betnovate-RD (Ready Diluted) is a milder version of the treatment that can be used for more sensitive areas.
There is also a branded generic equivalent, Betacap, that contains the same active ingredient. It’s often considered a cheaper alternative, while providing the same efficacy.
Frequently asked questions about Betnovate Scalp Application
Is Betnovate a steroid?
Yes. Betnovate is a corticosteroid, which is an anti-inflammatory medicine. It mimics natural cortisol to reduce swelling and suppress overactive immune responses.
How long should I use Betnovate on my scalp?
Betnovate should improve your skin within a few weeks, if you’ve not noticed any improvements in four weeks of taking the treatment speak to your doctor.
Does Betnovate encourage hair growth?
Betnovate may encourage hair growth in some people. This is a rare side effect of using the treatment – Betnovate is not an appropriate to treat hair loss.
Can I leave Betnovate scalp application on overnight?
It’s recommended you apply Betnovate twice a day, in the morning and at night. You should always let the solution dry in your hair and make sure not to wash it out. It will be fine to leave on overnight.
Sources
- How and when to use betamethasone for skin (2023). NHS. [Accessed on 27 March 2026]
- Side effects of betamethasone for skin (2023). NHS. [Accessed on 27 March 2026]
- Betamethasone. BNF. [Accessed on 27 March 2026]
- Who can and cannot use betamethasone for skin (2023). NHS. [Accessed on 27 March 2026]
