What Is Locoid?

Locoid is a brand-name prescription topical corticosteroid containing Hydrocortisone Butyrate 0.1%, used to treat inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, atopic dermatitis, and contact dermatitis.

Manufactured by Bausch Health (formerly Valeant Pharmaceuticals), Locoid is classified as a mid-potency (Group V) topical steroid. It sits in the middle of the corticosteroid potency scale — stronger than over-the-counter hydrocortisone but gentler than high-potency options like Clobetasol. This makes it a versatile choice for moderate skin inflammation that doesn't respond to OTC treatments but doesn't require the strongest prescriptions.

Locoid is not a controlled substance and is available in several formulations: cream, ointment, lipocream, and topical solution — all at 0.1% concentration. A generic version (Hydrocortisone Butyrate) is also available.

What Is Locoid Used For?

Locoid is FDA-approved for treating corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses, which is a broad category that includes:

• Atopic dermatitis (eczema) — The most common reason Locoid is prescribed. It reduces the redness, itching, and inflammation that characterize eczema flares.
• Contact dermatitis — Skin inflammation caused by irritants or allergens (poison ivy, nickel, chemicals, etc.).
• Seborrheic dermatitis — Scaly, flaky skin often found on the scalp, face, or chest.
• Eczema (general) — Various forms of eczema that cause itching and inflammation.

Doctors also sometimes prescribe Locoid off-label for:

• Mild to moderate psoriasis (on limited areas)
• Lichen simplex chronicus (thickened, itchy skin from chronic scratching)
• Nummular dermatitis (coin-shaped patches of irritated skin)
• Insect bite reactions

How Is Locoid Taken?

Locoid is applied topically — meaning directly to the skin. Here's how to use it properly:

1. Clean the area. Gently wash and pat dry the affected skin.
2. Apply a thin film. Use just enough to cover the affected area with a thin layer. You don't need to glob it on — a little goes a long way.
3. Rub in gently. Massage the medication into the skin until it's absorbed.
4. Wash your hands. Unless you're treating your hands, wash them after applying.
5. Repeat 2-3 times daily as directed by your doctor.

Choosing the Right Formulation

The formulation your doctor prescribes depends on the location and type of your skin condition:

• Cream — Good for moist or weeping areas. Absorbs quickly and is less greasy.
• Ointment — Best for dry, thick, or scaly patches. More moisturizing but greasier.
• Lipocream — A hybrid between cream and ointment. Moisturizing but less greasy than an ointment. The Locoid Lipocream formulation is unique to the brand.
• Solution — Best for the scalp or hairy areas where creams and ointments are impractical.

Treatment Duration

Treatment is typically limited to 2 to 4 weeks for most conditions. Prolonged use increases the risk of side effects like skin thinning. Your doctor may recommend intermittent use (e.g., using it for a few weeks during flares, then stopping) rather than continuous application. For a detailed look at side effects, see our guide on Locoid side effects.

Who Should Not Take Locoid?

Locoid should not be used if you have:

• Hypersensitivity to Hydrocortisone Butyrate or any ingredient in the formulation
• Viral skin infections — such as herpes simplex (cold sores), chickenpox, or shingles
• Untreated fungal skin infections — like ringworm or athlete's foot
• Untreated bacterial skin infections
• Rosacea — topical steroids can worsen rosacea significantly
• Perioral dermatitis — the rash around the mouth that is often made worse by steroid creams

Use with caution in:

• Children — more susceptible to systemic absorption due to their body size
• Pregnant women — Category C; use only if benefit outweighs risk
• Nursing mothers — avoid applying to the breast area; use cautiously
• Elderly patients — aging skin is more prone to thinning

How Much Does Locoid Cost?

Cost depends on whether you get the brand name or generic:

• Brand-name Locoid: $150 to $400 depending on the formulation and tube size
• Generic Hydrocortisone Butyrate: $30 to $80 for a 15-45g tube

Insurance Coverage

Most insurance plans cover generic Hydrocortisone Butyrate at a Tier 2 or Tier 3 copay. Brand-name Locoid may require prior authorization or step therapy (your insurer may want you to try a lower-cost topical steroid first). Some plans also have quantity limits.

Ways to Save

There are several ways to reduce your out-of-pocket cost:

• Ask for the generic. Unless your doctor writes "dispense as written," the pharmacist can substitute Hydrocortisone Butyrate — saving you potentially hundreds of dollars.
• Use discount cards. Services like GoodRx, SingleCare, and RxSaver offer coupons that can lower the cash price at many pharmacies.
• Check manufacturer programs. Bausch Health has periodically offered copay savings cards for Locoid Lipocream. Check bauschhealth.com for current offers.
• Patient assistance programs. If you're uninsured or underinsured, the Bausch Health Patient Assistance Program may provide Locoid at no cost. You can also check NeedyMeds and RxAssist.

For a comprehensive breakdown, see our guide on how to save money on Locoid.

Final Thoughts

Locoid is a proven, mid-potency topical corticosteroid that's effective for a range of inflammatory skin conditions. It's particularly well-suited for moderate eczema and dermatitis when over-the-counter options aren't enough. The generic version makes it affordable for most patients, and it's available in multiple formulations to suit different skin types and body areas.

If you're new to Locoid, talk to your doctor about which formulation is right for you and how long to use it. And if you're having trouble finding it in stock, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy near you that has it available. To understand how Locoid works at a deeper level, check out How Does Locoid Work? Mechanism of Action Explained.