Description
Dovobet Gel is a prescription-only topical treatment for adults with scalp psoriasis and mild to moderate plaque psoriasis. It combines a vitamin D analogue (calcipotriol) with a potent corticosteroid (betamethasone) to reduce redness, itching and scaling, and to help plaques settle during a flare.
At a glance
| Active ingredients | Calcipotriol 50 micrograms/g + betamethasone 0.5 mg/g (as dipropionate) |
| Medicine type | Prescription-only topical psoriasis treatment (dual-action) |
| Where used | Scalp psoriasis and plaque psoriasis patches (body) |
| How often | Apply a thin layer once daily |
| Usual course length | Scalp: up to 4 weeks; Body: up to 8 weeks (as directed) |
| Max limits (adults) | Do not use more than 15 g/day; do not exceed 100 g/week; treat no more than 30% body surface area |
Why Dovobet Gel is prescribed
- Dual-action control: calcipotriol helps normalise skin cell turnover while betamethasone reduces inflammation.
- Designed for scalp and body plaques: gel format is practical for hair-bearing areas and targeted patches.
- Once-daily regimen: simple routine for flare control when milder options are not enough.
How Dovobet Gel works
Psoriasis causes skin cells to build up too quickly, leading to thickened, red, scaly plaques. Calcipotriol helps slow down excessive skin cell production, while betamethasone reduces inflammatory activity and itching. Together, they help plaques flatten and reduce scaling.
Who can use Dovobet Gel
- Adults (18+) with scalp psoriasis.
- Adults with mild to moderate plaque psoriasis that is suitable for topical treatment.
- Suitability should be confirmed by a prescriber, especially if you have widespread psoriasis or recurrent flares.
Who should NOT use it (or needs advice first)
- Children and adolescents under 18 (unless a specialist specifically advises).
- Anyone allergic to calcipotriol, betamethasone, or any ingredient in the product.
- If you have known calcium metabolism problems (hypercalcaemia risk).
- If the skin is infected (bacterial, fungal, or viral) or the rash is weeping/crusting/spreading.
- If you have severe psoriasis types (e.g., erythrodermic, exfoliative, pustular) — needs specialist care.
How to use Dovobet Gel (once daily)
- Wash and dry your hands before use.
- Apply a thin layer to affected areas only. Do not apply to healthy skin.
- Use once daily, ideally at the same time each day.
- Let the gel dry before covering the area with clothing or going to bed.
- Wash your hands after applying (unless treating your hands).
How to apply to the scalp
- Part the hair so you can see the plaque.
- Apply a small amount of gel to the affected scalp skin (not the hair).
- Gently rub in. Avoid getting it on the face or near the eyes.
- Leave it on to work (follow your prescriber’s instructions on timing and washing).
How long to use it
- Scalp areas: typically up to 4 weeks.
- Non-scalp areas (body plaques): typically up to 8 weeks.
- If you need longer treatment or repeated courses, this should be after medical review and under regular supervision.
Important use rules (to reduce risk)
- Do not use more than 15 g in one day or more than 100 g in one week.
- Do not treat more than 30% of your total body surface area.
- Avoid face, eyes, mouth, genitals, and skin folds unless specifically prescribed.
- Do not cover treated areas with airtight dressings unless instructed (occlusion increases absorption).
- Avoid excessive sunlight or sunbeds; ask your prescriber about UV exposure during treatment.
- Fire safety: keep away from naked flames and avoid smoking while the product is on the skin or on fabrics in contact with it.
Can I use moisturiser (emollients) with Dovobet?
Yes. Many psoriasis routines include an emollient to reduce dryness and scaling. As a simple rule, apply the emollient regularly, and apply Dovobet once daily to the active plaques. Leave a short gap between products so each can absorb.
Possible side effects
Most side effects occur when topical steroids are used too long, over large areas, on thin skin, or under occlusion. Follow the prescribed course and limits to reduce risk.
- Local irritation (burning, itching, redness) when first applied.
- Skin thinning, stretch marks, or visible blood vessels with prolonged or excessive steroid use.
- Worsening or masking of an underlying skin infection.
- Rarely: changes in calcium levels if overused (calcipotriol-related).
Stop using the gel and seek urgent medical advice if you develop severe swelling, widespread rash, breathing difficulty, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Buying Dovobet Gel online in the UK
Dovobet Gel is prescription-only in the UK. If you order online, you will complete a clinical questionnaire so a prescriber can confirm that the condition is appropriate for Dovobet and that there are no contraindications (for example, infection or unsuitable psoriasis type). If approved, the prescription is issued and the medicine is supplied and delivered discreetly.
FAQs
Is Dovobet Gel prescription-only in the UK?
Yes. A prescriber must confirm it is suitable before it can be supplied.
How often do I apply Dovobet Gel?
It is usually applied once daily in a thin layer to the affected areas only.
How long can I use it on the scalp?
Typical guidance is up to 4 weeks for scalp areas. Longer use should be reviewed by a clinician.
How long can I use it on body plaques?
Typical guidance is up to 8 weeks for non-scalp plaque psoriasis, unless your prescriber advises otherwise.
When will I see improvement?
Many patients see noticeable improvement within 1–2 weeks, but courses vary by severity and site.
Can I use it on my face?
No, avoid facial skin unless a clinician specifically instructs you, because the steroid component is potent.
Can I use other vitamin D psoriasis treatments at the same time?
Only if advised. Total calcipotriol dose limits still apply across all products.

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