Halobetasol vs triamcinolone: which is better?

• Which topical corticosteroid (“steroid”) product is best for you depends upon what skin condition you have, your symptoms and where it is located on your body.
• Other selection factors may include availability, cost and if the medicine is covered by your insurance.
• After examination, your doctor will be able to determine which topical steroid is best to treat your skin condition.

Halobetasol and triamcinolone are both prescription medicines used to treat skin conditions that are responsive to topical corticosteroids, such as dermatitis, eczema (atopic dermatitis), or psoriasis. Halobetasol is classified as a super-high to high-potency topical corticosteroid (“steroid”), and triamcinolone is medium-to-low potency. They come in a variety of forms, such as creams, lotions, ointments, sprays and shampoos.

The risk of side effects increases with the potency of these medicines, how long they are used, the size of the application area, if the area is wrapped or bandaged, and if they are applied to thinner areas of skin (such as the face or eyelids) or skin that rubs together (such as the groin or under the arms).

Learn more: Comparing Halobetasol Topical vs Triamcinolone Topical