Description
Mometasone furoate 0.1% cream and ointment (generic Elocon) are prescription-only potent topical corticosteroids used to rapidly reduce redness, swelling, itching and irritation during inflammatory skin flare-ups. They are typically prescribed when emollients and milder steroids (such as hydrocortisone) have not been sufficient.
At a glance
| Active ingredient | Mometasone furoate 0.1% w/w |
| Potency class (UK) | Potent topical corticosteroid |
| Available forms | Cream; Ointment (and separate scalp lotion in some brands) |
| Common uses | Eczema/atopic dermatitis; psoriasis (limited areas); dermatitis and other steroid-responsive rashes |
| How often | Thin film once daily (typical UK guidance) |
| Typical course | Often 1–2 weeks (longer only if prescribed) |
| Prescription status | Prescription-only medicine (UK) |
Cream vs ointment: which format should you choose?
UK patient guidance often differentiates the two by the type of flare and how the skin feels:
- Cream: lighter feel; often preferred for moist or weepy areas and skin folds.
- Ointment: thicker/greasier; often preferred for very dry, flaky, scaly or cracked areas that benefit from extra barrier protection.
- If you are unsure which is appropriate for your flare (or the body site), use the formulation prescribed for you.
What Mometasone 0.1% treats
Mometasone 0.1% skin treatments are commonly prescribed for short-term control of:
- Eczema and atopic dermatitis flare-ups (itch, redness, inflammation).
- Psoriasis plaques on limited areas (a prescriber will confirm suitability for the type and extent).
- Contact dermatitis and allergic skin reactions (where a potent steroid is clinically appropriate).
- Other corticosteroid-responsive inflammatory dermatoses as directed by a clinician.
How it works (why it settles flares)
Mometasone reduces inflammatory signalling in the skin, helping to break the itch–scratch cycle and calm swelling and redness. Because it is a potent steroid, correct technique and short courses are important to minimise side effects.
How to use (once-daily application)
- Wash and dry your hands and the affected area.
- Apply a thin film to the affected skin only (do not use as a general moisturiser).
- Gently rub in until absorbed.
- Use once daily, ideally at the same time each day.
- Wash hands after applying (unless treating the hands).
How much should you apply? Use the smallest amount that covers the affected area as a thin layer. A practical measuring method is the fingertip unit (FTU): one FTU (from fingertip to the first crease of an adult index finger) covers roughly two adult palm areas of skin.
How long to use it
- Many UK instructions describe using mometasone once daily for 1-2 weeks.
- Stop once the flare is controlled, unless your prescriber has advised a specific course.
- If you feel you need longer treatment, or symptoms return quickly, arrange a clinical review rather than extending use yourself.
Important safety checks (before you apply)
- Do not use on infected skin (bacterial, fungal or viral infections, including cold sores).
- Avoid eyes, mouth and mucous membranes. Do not use on the face unless specifically prescribed.
- Do not apply to broken skin, cuts or open wounds unless a clinician advises.
- Do not use for acne or rosacea.
- Do not cover treated areas with airtight dressings unless instructed (occlusion increases absorption).
- Use extra caution in skin folds/groin and on thin skin; side effects occur more easily.
Who needs advice before using mometasone
Speak to a clinician or pharmacist before use if:
- You are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.
- The patient is a child (potent steroids require careful supervision).
- You need treatment over large areas, in flexures (skin folds), or for repeated courses.
- The rash is painful, weeping, crusting, spreading, or you suspect infection.
- You are unsure if the rash is eczema/psoriasis or another condition.
Side effects
Mometasone is generally well tolerated when used correctly for short courses on limited areas. Risk increases with prolonged use, large areas, thin skin, or occlusion.
- Burning, stinging, itching or redness where applied (often temporary).
- Skin thinning, stretch marks, or visible small blood vessels with excessive or prolonged use.
- Worsening or masking of an underlying skin infection.
Stop using the medicine and seek urgent medical help if you develop severe swelling, widespread rash, breathing difficulty, or other signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Generic vs branded Elocon
Generic mometasone 0.1% contains the same active ingredient and strength as branded Elocon. The main differences are typically the manufacturer, packaging and the cream/ointment base (inactive ingredients), which can affect feel on the skin.
Buying Mometasone 0.1% cream or ointment online in the UK
Mometasone 0.1% is a prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK. If you order mometasone cream or mometasone ointment online, you will usually complete a clinical questionnaire so a prescriber can confirm suitability and check for red flags such as infection or an unsuitable psoriasis type. If approved, the prescription is issued and the medicine can be supplied with delivery.
FAQs
Can I use mometasone on my face?
Only if prescribed. Facial skin is thinner and more prone to side effects from potent steroids.
Is it safe for children?
Mometasone may be prescribed for children, but only under medical supervision and usually for short courses on limited areas.
Can I use it for nappy rash?
Not recommended unless a clinician specifically prescribes it for a confirmed diagnosis.
How fast does it work?
Many people notice reduced itching and redness within 1–2 days, though full control of a flare can take longer.
Should I choose cream or ointment?
Cream is often used for moist/weeping areas; ointment is often used for very dry or flaky patches. Use the formulation prescribed for you.
Can I use an emollient as well?
Yes. Use emollients regularly for barrier support. Apply mometasone once daily to active inflamed patches and leave a short gap between products.
Is mometasone stronger than hydrocortisone 1%?
Yes. Hydrocortisone 1% is classed as mild, while mometasone 0.1% is classed as potent.

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