What is Locoid? A Doctor Explains Steroid Ointment Use, Potency, and What Not to Do
目次
June 10, 2026
What is Locoid? A Doctor Explains Steroid Ointment Use, Strength, and What Not to Do
Common Misconceptions About Topical Steroids
"I was prescribed Locoid, but I don't know how much to apply." "I heard steroids are dangerous, is it okay to apply it to my face?" "Is it okay to keep applying it every day?" - Many people have questions and concerns about topical steroids.
Locoid (hydrocortisone butyrate) is a medium-strength topical steroid prescribed to reduce inflammation from eczema, dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis. When used correctly, it is safe and effective, but incorrect use can lead to side effects.
In this article, a doctor from Mona Aoyama Clinic explains basic information about Locoid, its strength ranking, proper application, precautions, and frequently asked questions.
- Locoid prescriptions available nationwide via online consultation
- Online consultations also available for eczema, dermatitis, and atopy
- Same-day prescription and shipping (for payments made by 4 PM)
What is Locoid? — Basic Information
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Hydrocortisone Butyrate |
| Type of Drug | Topical Steroid (Adrenocortical Hormone External Preparation) |
| Strength Rank | Medium — 3rd out of 5 levels |
| Formulations | Ointment, Cream, Lotion |
| Main Indications | Eczema, Dermatitis, Atopic Dermatitis, Contact Dermatitis, Seborrheic Dermatitis, etc. |
| Use on Face | Can be used under doctor's instructions (but prolonged/large-quantity use requires caution) |
| Prescription Category | Prescription drug (requires doctor's prescription) |
Strength of Topical Steroids — What Rank is Locoid?
Topical steroids are ranked into 5 levels based on their strength. Locoid belongs to the medium-strength class, which is the third strongest, and is considered relatively easy to use on the face and for children.
| Rank | Strength | Representative Drugs | Main Application Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strongest | ★★★★★ | Clobetasol Propionate (e.g., Dermovate) | Palms, soles of feet, and other areas with thick stratum corneum |
| Very Strong | ★★★★ | Betamethasone Propionate Butyrate (e.g., Antebate) | Trunk, limbs, etc. |
| Strong | ★★★ | Locoid (Hydrocortisone Butyrate), Fluocinolone Acetonide (e.g., Flucort) | Face, neck, joint areas, etc. |
| Medium | ★★ | Clobetasone Butyrate (e.g., Kindavate) | Face, infants, near mucous membranes |
| Weak | ★ | Hydrocortisone (e.g., Cortes) | Face, infants (mild cases) |
💡 It is more accurate to understand "it's a strength that can be used on the face if used correctly" rather than "it's safe because it's medium." Adhering to the correct application area, duration, and quantity is fundamental to preventing side effects.
Correct Application — Adhering to the Quantity Using FTU
The most important aspect of applying topical steroids is the amount applied. It is crucial to adhere to the appropriate amount using the FTU (Finger Tip Unit) standard, rather than just "applying a thin layer vaguely."
| What is FTU | Content |
|---|---|
| Definition of 1 FTU | The amount squeezed from the tube from the first crease of the index finger to the fingertip (approximately 0.5g) |
| Area covered by 1 FTU | An area equivalent to two adult palms |
| Entire face | Approximately 1 FTU |
| Neck | Approximately 1 FTU |
| Entire arm | Approximately 2 FTU |
| Entire leg | Approximately 4 FTU |
| Trunk (front) | Approximately 7 FTU |
Applying a "generous amount" does not necessarily enhance the effect. The basic principle is to apply a thin, even layer.
What Not to Do
| Incorrect Usage | Risks/Reasons |
|---|---|
| Continuously applying to the same area for a long period (several weeks or more) | Risk of side effects such as skin thinning (skin atrophy), visible capillaries (telangiectasia), and increased hair growth. |
| Long-term continuous use on the face | Potential to cause rosacea-like dermatitis (steroid rosacea) and perioral dermatitis. |
| Continuing "just in case" even after symptoms improve | Unnecessary use only leaves the risk of side effects. Once symptoms subside, consult a doctor to consider reducing or stopping use. |
| Use around the eyes | Risk of glaucoma and cataracts. Use around the eyes only under a doctor's instructions. |
| Use on areas with infections (bacterial, viral, fungal) | Steroids suppress immunity, potentially worsening the infection. |
| Sealing with plastic wrap or bandages (performing occlusive therapy without medical supervision) | Abnormal increase in ingredient absorption, significantly increasing the risk of side effects. |
⚠️ It is dangerous to continue using steroids on your own judgment simply because "symptoms worsened when I stopped." Always consult a doctor about changes in symptoms and duration of use.
Misconceptions about "scary" topical steroids
Many people in Japan have an excessive fear of topical steroids. However, when used according to a doctor's instructions, with the correct strength, amount, duration, and on the correct area, topical steroids are very safe and effective medications.
- Side effects are minimal when used at the appropriate strength, amount, and duration.
- In many cases, the vicious cycle of not using steroids due to fear of side effects, leading to prolonged inflammation and skin damage, carries a higher risk.
- If concerned about "steroid withdrawal symptoms," consult a doctor and gradually reduce the dosage.
Frequently Asked Questions
It can be used for a short period under a doctor's instructions. Long-term continuous use (more than 2 weeks) on the face carries a risk of side effects, so please discuss the duration of use with your doctor while monitoring improvement.
Locoid is a medium-strength steroid and relatively easy to use, but particular attention to the amount, duration, and area of use is necessary for children. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
Once symptoms have subsided, gradually reducing the dosage (e.g., from 2-3 times a week to once a week) is more likely to prevent recurrence than stopping abruptly. Please consult your doctor about when to reduce or stop the medication.
Topical steroids have minimal systemic absorption, so they are generally considered safe with appropriate use. However, always consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
It is generally recommended to apply the moisturizer first, wait a while (5-10 minutes), and then apply the steroid. However, if you have specific instructions from your doctor, please follow those.
Related Columns
Locoid Side Effects and Proper Use | Is "Continuous Use is Dangerous" True? Is it Okay to Apply Locoid to Your Face? A Guide to Use by Area List of Topical Steroid Strengths — How Do Locoid, Kindavate, and Rinderon Differ?Consultation Hours and Access (Online Consultation)
| Clinic Name | Mona Aoyama Clinic |
| Consultation Type | Online Consultation (Nationwide) / In-person Consultation (Tokyo, Aoyama) |
| Location | 3F D Building, 1-10-3 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0062 |
| Nearest Station | 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro "Aoyama-itchome Station" |
| Online Consultation | Available 24 hours a day, same-day prescription and shipping (for payments made by 4 PM) |
For Locoid prescriptions and dermatitis consultations, contact Mona Aoyama Clinic.
Online consultations available nationwide. Same-day prescription and shipping (for payments made by 4 PM).