Dermatitis

4 medicines

Dermatitis is inflammation of the skin that causes redness, itching, and irritation. Treatment depends on the type but often includes topical corticosteroids and regular moisturising.

Betnovate

Betamethasone

0.1%

Betnovate is a skin care medication containing Betamethasone, available as 0.1% creams.

from $1.63 / cream View

Diprolene

Betamethasone

0.1%

Diprolene is a skin care medication containing Betamethasone, available as 0.1% tubes.

from $7.01 / tube View

Fusiderm B

Betamethasone, Fusidic acid

2/0.12%

Fusiderm B is a skin care medication containing Betamethasone + Fusidic acid, available as 2/0.12% tubes.

from $21.46 / tube View

Temovate

Clobetasol

15/30g

Temovate is a skin care medication containing Clobetasol, available as 15/30g tubes.

from $7.79 / tube View

Key facts

  • Dermatitis is a broad term for skin inflammation, producing redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes blistering or oozing.
  • The main types are atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, and seborrhoeic dermatitis, each with different triggers.
  • Mild to moderate flares are treated with topical corticosteroids such as betamethasone or, for resistant patches, clobetasol; infected areas may need fusidic acid.
  • See a doctor if it spreads rapidly, shows signs of infection, or does not improve after a few weeks of treatment.

Types and triggers

The most common forms are atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, and seborrhoeic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis tends to run in families alongside asthma and hay fever, and flares are often worsened by heat and humidity. Contact dermatitis develops when skin reacts to a specific irritant or allergen, such as latex, nickel, or certain cosmetic ingredients. Seborrhoeic dermatitis targets oily areas like the scalp, face, and chest, often linked to the Malassezia yeast that lives naturally on skin.

Reducing and treating flares

For mild to moderate inflammation, short courses of topical corticosteroids are the mainstay. Stronger options such as clobetasol are used for resistant or severe patches, while mid-potency agents like betamethasone suit many everyday flares. When a secondary bacterial infection develops, fusidic acid, often combined with a steroid, clears the infection while calming inflammation. The full skin care range covers other topical options.

Day-to-day skin care

Consistent moisturising matters as much as any medicated treatment. Applying a fragrance-free emollient several times a day helps restore the skin barrier and reduces how often flares happen. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers, wearing breathable fabrics, and using mild, soap-free cleansers all make a meaningful difference over time.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if dermatitis spreads rapidly, becomes infected (look for weeping, crusting, or warmth), or fails to respond after a few weeks of treatment.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.