Description

Mometasone Furoate 0.1% Cream (Elocon)

Mometasone furoate 0.1% cream (brand name: Elocon) is a prescription-only potent topical corticosteroid used to reduce redness and itching in inflammatory skin conditions. It is typically prescribed when emollients and milder steroids (such as hydrocortisone) have not controlled a flare.

 

At a glance

Active ingredient	Mometasone furoate 0.1% w/w
Potency (UK classification)	Potent topical corticosteroid
Form	Cream (also available as ointment and scalp lotion)
Typical indications	Atopic dermatitis; psoriasis (excluding widespread plaque psoriasis)
How often	Apply a thin film once daily
Typical course length	Often 1–2 weeks (or as prescribed)
Prescription status	Prescription-only medicine in the UK

 

What is Mometasone Furoate 0.1% cream?

Mometasone furoate is a topical corticosteroid designed for short-course control of inflammation and itching. It is used on the skin to settle active flares rather than as a daily long-term moisturiser. Because it is a potent steroid, it should be used exactly as directed and for the shortest time needed to control symptoms.

What is it used for?

In the UK, mometasone furoate 0.1% cream is commonly prescribed for:

• Atopic dermatitis (eczema) – to reduce itch, redness, and inflammation during a flare.
• Psoriasis – for inflammatory, itchy plaques on limited body areas (not widespread plaque psoriasis).
• Other corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses when a clinician considers a potent steroid appropriate.

 

How it works

Mometasone reduces inflammatory signalling in the skin, helping to break the itch–scratch cycle. When used correctly (thin layer, small area, short duration), it provides local symptom control with a lower risk of side effects.

Cream vs ointment: which should you choose?

UK guidance typically distinguishes cream and ointment by skin feel and the type of rash:

• Cream is usually preferred for moist, weepy, or skin-fold areas because it feels lighter.
• Ointment is thicker and greasier and can be better for very dry or flaky skin where added barrier protection helps.
• Your prescriber may choose the formulation based on the body site and severity.

 

How to use (once-daily application)

1. Wash and dry your hands and the affected area.
2. Apply a thin film to affected skin only (do not use as a general moisturiser).
3. Gently rub in until absorbed.
4. Use once daily, ideally at the same time each day.
5. Wash your hands after applying (unless treating the hands).

 

If you also use an emollient (moisturiser), keep the routine simple: apply the emollient regularly, and use mometasone once daily on the inflamed patches. As a practical spacing rule, leave a short gap between products so each can absorb.

 

How long can you use it for?

Many UK patient instructions describe a typical course of once-daily application for around 1 to 2 weeks, with longer use only if a clinician advises it. If you feel you need ongoing treatment, symptoms worsen, or you are treating recurring flares, you should get a review rather than extending use yourself.

Where not to use it

• Do not use on infected skin (bacterial, fungal, or viral infections, including cold sores).
• Avoid eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.
• Avoid face unless your doctor specifically says it is OK.
• Do not use on acne or rosacea.
• Do not apply to broken skin, cuts, or open wounds.
• Do not cover with airtight dressings unless instructed (occlusion increases absorption).

 

Who needs medical advice before using mometasone?

You should discuss suitability with a clinician if:

• You are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.
• You are treating a child (children are more prone to systemic absorption).
• You need treatment on large areas, in skin folds, or for repeated courses.
• Your rash is painful, weeping, crusting, spreading, or you suspect infection.

 

Possible side effects

Side effects are more likely with potent steroids if used for longer than prescribed, on large areas, on thin skin (face/groin), or under occlusion.

• Stinging, burning, dryness, or irritation where applied.
• Skin thinning with prolonged use; stretch marks, or visible small blood vessels (especially on thin skin).
• Worsening of an undiagnosed skin infection (steroids can mask infection).
• Less commonly: changes in skin colour or increased hair growth in the treated area.

 

Stop use and seek urgent medical help if you develop severe swelling, widespread rash, breathing difficulty, or other signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Buying Mometasone 0.1% cream online in the UK

Mometasone skin treatments are prescription-only in the UK. If you are ordering online, a clinical assessment is required to confirm the condition is suitable for a potent steroid and that there are no contraindications (for example, infection). If approved, the prescription is supplied by a registered prescriber/pharmacy and the medicine can be delivered.

FAQs

Is mometasone furoate 0.1% (Elocon) prescription-only in the UK?

Yes. UK patient guidance states mometasone skin treatments are available on prescription only.

How often do I apply mometasone cream?

Most UK guidance and product information describe applying a thin film once daily to the affected areas only.

Can I use it on my face?

Only if your doctor says it is OK. Facial skin is thinner and more prone to side effects from potent steroids.

How quickly does it work?

Many people notice less itching and redness within a few days. If there is no improvement after the advised course, arrange a review.

Is it stronger than hydrocortisone?

Yes. Mometasone furoate is classed as a potent topical corticosteroid, whereas hydrocortisone 1% is classed as mild.

Can I use an emollient as well?

Yes. Emollients are used regularly to support the skin barrier, while mometasone is used once daily on inflamed patches for short courses.

What if my skin looks infected?

Do not apply mometasone to infected skin. Arrange clinical assessment for appropriate treatment (for example, antimicrobial therapy).