Which Psoriasis Treatment Is Right for Me? Enstilar, Dovobet and Dovonex
⭐ 4.9/5 on Google · GPhC Registered · NHS & Private · Same-day appointments in Kingston
⭐ 4.9/5 on Google · GPhC Registered · NHS & Private · Same-day appointments in Kingston
A guide to how Enstilar Foam, Dovobet Gel and Dovonex Ointment work, what makes them different, and how to determine which option may be most suitable for you.
For many people with mild to moderate psoriasis, topical treatments are the first line of treatment. Topical treatments are medicines applied directly to the skin — they work by reducing inflammation, slowing excessive skin cell production, and helping plaques become less thick and scaly.
Different treatments contain different active ingredients, which is why some may be better suited to particular types of psoriasis than others. The three treatments discussed in this guide all work in slightly different ways and may be prescribed depending on your individual symptoms and treatment needs.
Each of these treatments has different characteristics that may make it more or less suitable depending on where psoriasis affects you and how severe your symptoms are.
A foam formulation used for plaque psoriasis. Spreads smoothly across affected areas, absorbs quickly and is less greasy than many traditional ointments. The combination of two active ingredients targets both inflammation and excessive skin cell production simultaneously.
Contains the same active ingredients as Enstilar but supplied as a gel. Commonly used for plaque psoriasis and scalp psoriasis. Many patients find the gel format easier to apply to the scalp, hair-bearing areas and larger plaques. For many patients, the choice between Enstilar and Dovobet comes down to personal preference and the areas being treated.
A steroid-free option containing calcipotriol alone. Works by regulating skin cell growth rather than reducing inflammation directly. May be suitable where longer-term maintenance treatment is being considered, though it may not provide the same rapid improvement in inflammation that combination treatments achieve.
Psoriasis occurs because the immune system triggers skin cells to reproduce much faster than normal, leading to the build-up of thick, inflamed, scaly plaques. The active ingredients in these treatments target different parts of this process.
A vitamin D analogue that helps regulate skin cell growth and slows excessive skin cell production. Can help plaques become thinner and less scaly over time.
A corticosteroid that reduces inflammation within the skin, leading to improvements in redness, itching, irritation and swelling. Present in Enstilar and Dovobet but not Dovonex.
Treatments such as Enstilar and Dovobet combine both mechanisms — and by addressing both inflammation and excessive skin cell production, they can often provide faster and more noticeable improvements than calcipotriol alone.
Scalp psoriasis can be particularly challenging because hair can make treatments difficult to apply. For many patients, Dovobet Gel is a popular option because it can be applied directly to affected areas of the scalp and is specifically licensed for scalp psoriasis — and many patients find gel formulations easier to use in hair-bearing areas than ointments.
During a consultation, we can assess your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate option.
Both Enstilar Foam and Dovobet Gel are commonly prescribed for plaque psoriasis. Dovonex may also be considered in certain situations, particularly where a steroid-free approach is preferred. The best treatment is often the one that suits both your symptoms and your lifestyle — making it easier to use consistently.
Many patients prefer Enstilar because it spreads easily, absorbs quickly and feels less greasy than ointment formulations — making it particularly convenient for larger plaques or areas that are awkward to treat. Others prefer Dovobet because they are more familiar with gel formulations or find it easier to target specific areas.
Psoriasis treatments generally require consistent use to achieve their full effect. Although some patients notice early improvements within the first few weeks, patience and consistency are often key to achieving the best possible results.
The exact timeframe varies depending on the severity of psoriasis, the treatment being used, how consistently it is applied, and individual response to treatment.
Like all medicines, psoriasis treatments can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary. Because Enstilar and Dovobet contain a corticosteroid, they should be used according to the instructions provided by your healthcare professional — using more than recommended will not improve results and may increase the likelihood of unwanted effects.
Before treatment is supplied, our pharmacy team will review your medical history and ensure the treatment is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
If you’re unsure which psoriasis treatment may be right for you, our pharmacy team can help. We offer a convenient consultation service where we assess your symptoms, review your treatment history, and recommend the most appropriate treatment option for your individual needs.
Whether you’re considering Enstilar Foam, Dovobet Gel or Dovonex Ointment, we can provide personalised advice and ongoing support throughout your treatment journey. With the right treatment plan, many people are able to achieve better symptom control, reduce flare-ups and enjoy healthier, more comfortable skin.
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