From the Guidelines
Travocort should not be applied to the face due to its potent corticosteroid component, diflucortolone valerate, which can cause significant side effects on thin, sensitive facial skin. The use of high-potency corticosteroids like diflucortolone valerate on the face is generally discouraged due to the risk of skin thinning, telangiectasia, acne-like eruptions, and increased risk of absorption leading to systemic effects 1. Facial skin is more permeable than other body areas, making these risks higher. According to the guidelines of care for the management of atopic dermatitis in adults with topical therapies, medium potency steroids can be utilized for longer courses due to a more favorable adverse event profile, and low potency steroids are recommended for use on the face, neck, genitals, and body folds 1.
When considering treatment for facial skin conditions, it is essential to choose medications specifically formulated for facial use, with lower potency steroids or non-steroidal options that provide effective treatment without the risks associated with potent corticosteroids like those in Travocort. The joint AAD-NPF guidelines of care for the management and treatment of psoriasis with topical therapy and alternative medicine modalities for psoriasis severity measures also recommend using lower potency corticosteroids on the face and intertriginous areas to minimize the risk of adverse effects 1.
Key considerations for treating facial skin conditions include:
- Using lower potency corticosteroids or non-steroidal options to minimize the risk of adverse effects
- Choosing medications specifically formulated for facial use
- Avoiding the use of high-potency corticosteroids like diflucortolone valerate on the face
- Consulting a healthcare provider for appropriate alternatives and guidance on treatment options 1.
From the Research
Application of Travocort to the Face
- Travocort is a topical corticosteroid, and its application to the face should be approached with caution due to the potential risk of adverse effects such as atrophy, striae, rosacea, telangiectasias, purpura, and other cutaneous and systemic reactions 2.
- The face has thinner skin, which increases the risk of adverse effects when using topical corticosteroids 2.
- There is no specific mention of Travocort in the provided studies, but the general guidelines for topical corticosteroids suggest that they can be used on the face, albeit with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional 2.
- For conditions like rosacea, which often affects the face, topical metronidazole, sulfacetamide/sulfur, and azelaic acid are generally effective and may be preferred over topical corticosteroids due to their specific efficacy and safety profiles for this condition 3, 4, 5.
- When applying any topical medication to the face, including Travocort, it is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and application instructions carefully to minimize the risk of adverse effects 2.