What is Canesten Hydrocortisone Cream?
Canesten Hydrocortisone Athlete’s Foot Cream is a dual-action treatment for fungal skin infections, like athlete's foot and fungal sweat rash, that are also inflamed. It contains clotrimazole, an antifungal, and hydrocortisone, a mild steroid to reduce inflammation.
What is Canesten Hydrocortisone Cream used for?
It is used to treat fungal infections of the skin, particularly when there are symptoms of redness, swelling, or itching, which require anti-inflammatory action such as sweat rashes and athlete's foot.
Where it can be used
Use on small areas of external skin affected by inflamed athlete’s foot or fungal sweat rash. If the cause of the rash is uncertain, ask a pharmacist before treating it. This cream is not for use on the face.
Where it should not be used
Do not use on broken skin, large areas, the face, eyes, mouth or mucous membranes. Do not use for cold sores, acne, rosacea, chickenpox, shingles or untreated bacterial infections. Do not cover with a dressing or bandage.
A doctor must prescribe it before use:
- In children under 10, during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
- On the genitals or around the anus.
- For ringworm, eczema, psoriasis or dermatitis.
How to use Canesten Hydrocortisone cream
- Apply a thin layer to the affected area; the leaflet suggests approximately 1 cm of cream per application
- Gently rub the cream into your skin until it is evenly distributed
- Wash your hands after application, unless they are the affected area
- Repeat this twice daily for up to 7 days
Stop after seven days. Contact a doctor or pharmacist sooner if it worsens, or if it has not improved by then. If antifungal treatment is still needed after the inflammation settles, ask about an antifungal without a steroid.
Fingertip units (FTU)
An FTU represents the quantity of topical steroid cream dispensed from a regular tube using a standard 5 mm nozzle onto the fingertip of an adult. The fingertip measurement, measures from the tip of an adult finger to the first crease of the finger. This single FTU is adequate for treating an area of skin equal to twice the size of an adult's flat hand with fingers closely aligned, commonly referred to as a 'handprint.'
This explains the general FTU measure; it is not a direction to treat large areas with this product. Follow the small amount and seven-day limit above.
Canesten Hydrocortisone Cream ingredients
Active ingredients: Clotrimazole 10 mg/g (1%) and hydrocortisone acetate 11.2 mg/g, equivalent to hydrocortisone 10 mg/g (1%)
Other ingredients: Benzyl alcohol, cetostearyl alcohol, medium chain triglycerides, triceteareth-4-phosphate, purified water, sodium hydroxide, hydrochloric acid.
Cetostearyl alcohol may cause local skin reactions. Benzyl alcohol may cause allergy or mild irritation.
Precautions for using Canesten Hydrocortisone Cream
Do not use on broken or weeping skin, or near the eyes. Not suitable for children under 10 unless directed by a doctor. Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless prescribed by a doctor.
Side effects
Side effects are rare but may include skin irritation or an allergic reaction. Discontinue use if you experience worsening symptoms and seek medical advice.
How to store Canesten Hydrocortisone Cream
Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Keep out of reach of children, and do not use after the expiry date indicated on the packaging.
Where to buy Canesten Hydrocortisone Cream
Canesten Hydrocortisone Cream is available to buy after a short consultation with a pharmacist. Fill in a consultation form above and once approved by the pharmacist your order will be dispatched the same day if it is ordered before 3pm.
Sources and further information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use Canesten Hydrocortisone Cream for longer than a week?
Do not continue this cream beyond seven days. If treatment is still needed, a pharmacist or doctor can review the rash and advise on a steroid-free antifungal.
Can I use this cream if I am pregnant?
Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor has prescribed it. Tell your doctor or midwife before treatment.
Can children use Canesten Hydrocortisone Cream?
This cream is not suitable for children under 10 without a doctor’s recommendation. Always follow medical advice for young patients.
