Hydrocortisone 1% Cream - 15 g

Hydrocortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone 1% cream is a mild steroid-based cream that relieves swelling, inflammation, and irritation caused by insect bites and stings. It can also be used for mild cases of eczema and other superficial skin conditions. As it is a steroid, it should be used sparingly, and only a thin layer should be applied to the affected area(s).

When to Use Hydrocortisone Cream?

Hydrocortisone cream is a topical corticosteroid that treats a range of conditions and reduces symptoms, including itching, redness, inflammation, and swelling.

It's most beneficial for:

• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Can support the management of eczema, including reducing itchy, inflamed, and dry skin.
• Dermatitis: Treats contact dermatitis and irritant contact dermatitis.
• Nappy Rash: Many parents use hydrocortisone for nappy rash, but you should seek medical advice before doing so.
• Intertrigo: Reduces irritation between skin folds.
• Psoriasis: Can be a beneficial treatment for mild psoriasis, although stronger treatments may be required for severe cases.

Hydrocortisone Cream Age Restrictions

The recommended age range for hydrocortisone creams is adults and children over 10. However, younger children can also use it as long as a doctor or pharmacist recommends it.

How to Use Hydrocortisone Cream?

When using hydrocortisone treatments, please follow the instructions carefully to avoid side effects:

• Prepare: Wash your hands before and after using hydrocortisone cream. You should clean the affected skin area with water to remove any products.
• Apply: While hydrocortisone is a mild cream, it's still a corticosteroid, and a small amount will go a long way. Use approximately 0.5 grams of cream (a fingertip's worth) for adults and follow the healthcare professional's instructions for children.
• Rub it In: Once you apply a thin layer of cream to the affected area, gently rub it in. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this can impact your skin and cause irritation.

In most cases, you'll apply hydrocortisone once or twice daily, depending on your skin condition and the healthcare professional's advice.

If you purchase the cream over the counter, you should use it for a maximum of one week. However, some doctors and registered pharmacists will prescribe it for longer if they think it may be beneficial.

It's best to stop using the cream once your symptoms improve.

When to Avoid Using Hydrocortisone Cream?

While hydrocortisone cream is an excellent option for treating a variety of skin conditions, there are some situations where you should avoid it.

These include:

• Skin Infection: People with fungal infections like ringworm or candidiasis and bacterial skin infections should use creams formulated to treat the infection.
• Acne: Using hydrocortisone on acne can worsen the condition and make your skin more sensitive.
• Rosacea: It can also have the same effect on rosacea, but alternative treatments can reduce redness.
• Perioral dermatitis: If you have a rash around your mouth, using steroid creams can worsen your condition.
• Wounds: When you apply hydrocortisone to weeping or broken skin, it can cause an infection.
• Allergies: If you're sensitive or allergic to any of the ingredients in hydrocortisone, you should avoid using it.
• Other Steroids: It's generally not recommended to use hydrocortisone if you're currently taking other steroids.

Precautions of Hydrocortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone should never be used near the eyes or on the genitals, unless your doctor advises you to do so. Please avoid applying bandages and plasters over the affected areas, as it increases steroid absorption and can cause side effects.

If you're currently taking any medications or have a pre-existing condition, please speak to your doctor before using hydrocortisone. The same applies to pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Ingredients of Hydrocortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that has anti-inflammatory effects. It's available in strengths including 0.5% and 1%.

The cream also has a range of inactive ingredients which may vary depending on the formulation. Inactive ingredients include:

• Emollients and moisturisers
• Emulsifying agents
• Preservatives

Please see the information leaflet for a complete list of ingredients.