Topical Steroid Selector
Treatment Comparison Table
| Product | Potency | Best For | Side Effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flutivate | Medium | Moderate eczema & psoriasis | Mild burning, dryness |
| Hydrocortisone | Low | Mild flare-ups, sensitive areas | Transient itching, erythema |
| Clobetasol | High | Severe plaques, resistant cases | Skin thinning, telangiectasia |
| Tacrolimus | None | Facial, intertriginous areas | No steroid-related side effects |
If you’ve been prescribed a steroid cream for eczema, psoriasis or allergic dermatitis, you’ve probably seen the name Flutivate Skin Cream on the pharmacy shelf. But with a handful of other options-some stronger, some gentler-how do you know which one is the right fit? This guide walks you through the science behind Flutivate, stacks it up against the most common alternatives, and gives you a clear decision framework so you can pick the product that matches your skin’s needs.
Key Takeaways
- Flutivate contains 0.005% fluticasone propionate, a mid‑potency corticosteroid that works well for moderate eczema and psoriasis.
- Hydrocortisone 1% is the go‑to low‑potency option for mild flare‑ups and sensitive skin areas.
- Clobetasol propionate 0.05% offers high potency for severe plaques but carries a higher risk of skin thinning.
- Non‑steroidal options like tacrolimus and pimecrolimus provide immunomodulation without steroid‑related side effects, suitable for facial or intertriginous use.
- Choosing the right cream depends on potency, treatment duration, body area, and your tolerance for side effects.
What Is Flutivate Skin Cream?
Flutivate Skin Cream is a prescription‑only topical corticosteroid that contains 0.005% fluticasone propionate, a synthetic glucocorticoid designed to reduce inflammation, itching and redness on the skin. It was approved in Australia in 2018 and quickly became a favourite for dermatologists treating moderate‑to‑severe eczema and plaque psoriasis. The formulation uses a non‑greasy base that spreads easily, making it comfortable for both daily and occasional use.
How Flutivate Works
Fluticasone binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the epidermis, switching off pro‑inflammatory genes and boosting anti‑inflammatory proteins. The result is less swelling, fewer immune cells flocking to the area, and a noticeable drop in itch intensity within a few days. Because the molecule is slightly larger than older steroids, it penetrates the skin more slowly, limiting systemic absorption and reducing the chance of adrenal suppression when used as directed.
Core Attributes of Flutivate
- Potency: Mid‑range (comparable to mometasone furoate).
- Typical dosage: Apply a thin layer once or twice daily to the affected area.
- Duration of safe use: Up to 2 weeks for continuous therapy; intermittent “week‑on, week‑off” schedules are common for chronic conditions.
- Prescription status: Schedule 4 (prescription‑only) in Australia.
- Price point (2025, Melbourne): Approx. AU$45 for a 30g tube.
Alternative Topical Steroids & Non‑Steroidal Options
Below are the most frequently discussed alternatives, each marked up with schema.org microdata for easy reference.
Hydrocortisone Cream is a low‑potency (1%) corticosteroid used for mild eczema, insect bites and dermatitis on delicate skin.
Clobetasol Propionate Cream is a high‑potency (0.05%) steroid reserved for severe plaque psoriasis or stubborn eczema that hasn’t responded to milder options.
Mometasone Furoate Cream offers mid‑high potency (0.1%) and is popular for chronic eczema on the trunk and limbs.
Betamethasone Valerate Cream provides medium potency (0.1%) and is often prescribed for inflammatory dermatoses that cover larger body areas.
Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream is a medium‑potency (0.1%) steroid typically used for eczema and psoriasis on the scalp and extremities.
Desonide Cream is a very low‑potency (0.05%) steroid ideal for facial or intertriginous areas where skin is thin.
Tacrolimus Ointment is a non‑steroidal calcineurin inhibitor that modulates immune response, often used for atopic dermatitis on the face and neck.
Pimecrolimus Cream another calcineurin inhibitor, formulated for mild‑to‑moderate eczema, especially in children.
Decision Criteria: How to Choose the Right Cream
- Potency needed: Low for mild flare‑ups, medium for moderate disease, high for resistant plaques.
- Body area: Face, genitals, and skin folds require gentler options to avoid thinning.
- Treatment length: Short bursts favor steroids; chronic management may need steroid‑sparing agents.
- Side‑effect profile: Consider risks like skin atrophy, telangiectasia, or systemic absorption.
- Cost & accessibility: Prescription‑only products may need a doctor’s visit, while some low‑potency creams are over‑the‑counter.
Side‑Effect Profile Comparison
| Product | Common Local Side‑Effects | Systemic Risk (≥2weeks use) | Special Precautions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flutivate | Mild burning, occasional dryness | Low (minimal absorption) | Avoid occlusive dressings; limit to 2weeks |
| Hydrocortisone | Transient itching, slight erythema | Very low | Safe on face and intertriginous zones |
| Clobetasol | Skin thinning, telangiectasia, stretch marks | Moderate (if used >2weeks on large area) | Not for face, genitalia, or children <12y |
| Mometasone | Dryness, mild burning | Low‑moderate | Can be used on face for short periods |
| Tacrolimus | Stinging, transient redness | Negligible | May cause acneiform eruptions; avoid sunburn |
| Pimecrolimus | Burning sensation, mild itching | Negligible | Prefer for children; monitor for skin infections |
When Flutivate Is the Sweet Spot
Think of Flutivate as the “just right” middle ground. If you’ve tried hydrocortisone and the relief wasn’t enough, but you’re wary of jumping to a super‑strong steroid like clobetasol, Flutivate fills that gap. It works for:
- Moderate‑severity eczema on the arms, legs or trunk.
- Scalp psoriasis that responds to mid‑potency treatment.
- Short‑term flare‑ups where a prescription is already on hand.
Because its systemic absorption is low, the cream is safe for people with diabetes or hypertension who need to avoid any steroid‑induced blood‑sugar spikes.
Scenarios Where Another Product Beats Flutivate
Facial or genital dermatitis: Choose Hydrocortisone (1%) or Desonide (0.05%) to keep skin thinness in check.
Severe plaque psoriasis covering large areas: Clobetasol Propionate provides the intensity needed, but limit use to under two weeks and monitor for atrophy.
Long‑term management for children: Non‑steroidal options like Pimecrolimus or Tacrolimus avoid growth‑impact concerns associated with steroids.
Cost‑sensitive patients: Over‑the‑counter Hydrocortisone is inexpensive (≈AU$8) and works for mild symptoms without a doctor visit.
Practical Tips for Using Any Topical Therapy
- Wash hands before and after application to prevent spreading infection.
- Apply a thin film-more isn’t better; excess can increase absorption.
- Use a fingertip‑unit measure (≈0.5g) per palm‑sized area for consistency.
- Pair with a fragrance‑free moisturizer after the steroid has dried to maintain barrier function.
- Track improvement daily; if no change after 5-7days, consult your dermatologist about stepping up or switching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Flutivate on my face?
For short periods (up to 7days) it’s acceptable on the cheeks or forehead if the eczema is moderate. However, many clinicians prefer a lower‑potency cream like hydrocortisone or desonide for facial skin to avoid thinning.
How long should I wait between switching from Flutivate to a calcineurin inhibitor?
A 48‑hour wash‑out period is recommended. This lets any residual steroid clear from the skin, reducing the risk of additive irritation when you start tacrolimus or pimecrolimus.
Is Flutivate safe during pregnancy?
Topical steroids are generally low‑risk, but you should keep the treatment area small, avoid occlusion, and discuss any use with your obstetrician. Fluticasone’s low systemic absorption makes it one of the safer choices among mid‑potency steroids.
Why does my skin feel itchy right after applying Flutivate?
A brief stinging sensation is common with many steroids, especially if the skin is cracked or inflamed. It usually fades within minutes. If the burning persists beyond 15 minutes, rinse off and seek medical advice.
Can I combine Flutivate with an antibacterial cream?
Yes, apply the steroid first, let it absorb (about 5minutes), then layer the antibacterial if there’s a secondary infection. This order ensures the steroid isn’t diluted.
Next Steps
Start by assessing your flare‑up severity. If it’s moderate and you already have a Flutivate prescription, try a 2‑week course while monitoring for side‑effects. If you’re dealing with delicate skin, switch to a low‑potency option or a calcineurin inhibitor. Not sure which route to take? Schedule a quick telehealth visit with your dermatologist-most clinics can issue an e‑prescription within 24hours.
Remember, topical therapy is just one piece of the puzzle. Maintaining a moisturized skin barrier, avoiding known triggers, and using gentle cleansers will keep flare‑ups at bay and reduce the need for any strong cream in the long run.
I feel u when u’re stuck choosing a cream its tough especially with all the fine print its like reading a novel while itchy lol