What is Hydrocortisone 1% Cream?
Hydrocortisone 1% Cream is a mild corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation, redness, and itching caused by various skin conditions. It is one of the most common treatments for managing mild to moderate skin irritation and flare-ups.
What is Hydrocortisone 1% Cream used for?
Hydrocortisone 1% Cream is commonly used to treat:
- Eczema and dermatitis
- Insect bites and stings
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Rashes caused by irritants, such as soaps or detergents
- Psoriasis only when a clinician has advised this treatment
- Other inflamed skin conditions only after a pharmacist or doctor has checked the cause
It helps to quickly relieve symptoms of inflammation and itching, making it an excellent treatment choice for a variety of skin conditions.
How does Hydrocortisone 1% Cream work?
Hydrocortisone is a mild corticosteroid that works by:
- Reducing inflammation by suppressing the immune response in the affected area.
- Relieving itching and redness by calming irritated skin.
How to use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream
Apply Hydrocortisone 1% Cream 1-2 times daily or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Follow these steps:
- Clean and dry the affected area of skin.
- Using fingertip units (see below), apply an appropriate amount of cream to the affected area
- Wash your hands thoroughly after application (unless you are treating your hands).
Use a thin layer on a small area. Do not use on broken or infected skin, the face, near the eyes, or the anal or genital area. Do not cover treated skin with a plaster or dressing.
Do not use for more than seven days unless a pharmacist or doctor tells you to. Seek advice sooner if symptoms worsen, or if they have not improved by then.
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.'
Hydrocortisone cream ingredients
Active ingredient: hydrocortisone 1% w/w (10mg per gram).
Other ingredients: cetomacrogol emulsifying wax, chlorocresol, liquid paraffin, macrogol 300, white soft paraffin and purified water. Chlorocresol may cause allergic reactions. The emulsifying wax contains cetostearyl alcohol, which may cause local skin reactions such as contact dermatitis.
Precautions for using Hydrocortisone 1% Cream
- Do not use if you are allergic to hydrocortisone or another ingredient.
- Do not apply to the face, near the eyes, the anal or genital area, or broken skin.
- Do not use on infected skin, including cold sores, chickenpox, impetigo, athlete’s foot, ringworm or thrush.
- Do not use on nappy rash. Children under 10 need medical advice before treatment.
- Stop and seek advice if symptoms worsen or have not improved after seven days.
Fire risk: keep away from smoking, naked flames and other ignition sources. Product residue on clothing, bedding and dressings can make them catch fire more easily and cause serious burns. Wash these fabrics regularly; washing reduces the build-up but may not remove it completely.
If the rash returns within two weeks of stopping, ask a pharmacist or doctor before restarting. Get advice for burning or redness spreading beyond the original area.
Possible side effects of Hydrocortisone 1% Cream
Side effects are rare but may include:
- Skin thinning or discoloration with prolonged use
- Mild irritation or stinging at the application site
- Increased sensitivity of the skin
If you experience severe irritation or signs of an allergic reaction, discontinue use and seek medical advice.
Hydrocortisone 1% Cream during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Hydrocortisone 1% Cream can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding if recommended by your doctor. Avoid applying the cream to the chest area while breastfeeding to prevent accidental ingestion by the baby.
General advice for treating skin conditions
To manage skin conditions effectively while using Hydrocortisone 1% Cream, follow these tips:
- Avoid triggers such as harsh soaps, allergens, or irritants that may worsen symptoms.
- Keep your skin moisturized with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to support the skin barrier.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing to reduce irritation caused by friction or sweating.
- Avoid scratching the affected area to prevent further irritation or infection.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for treatment duration to avoid overuse.
How to store Hydrocortisone 1% Cream
Do not store above 25°C. Keep the tube in the original outer carton and out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date on the tube or carton.
Where to buy Hydrocortisone 1% Cream
You can buy Hydrocortisone 1% from pharmacies without a prescription for the treatment of mild skin conditions including here at Hightown Pharmacy. Always make sure you are purchasing from a legitimate pharmacy.
Sources and further information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long can I use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream for?
It is typically safe to use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream for up to 7 days. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor for further advice.
Can Hydrocortisone 1% Cream be used on the face?
Do not use this retail cream on the face or near the eyes. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor about a suitable treatment for a facial rash.
Is Hydrocortisone 1% Cream suitable for children?
It can be used from age 10. Children under 10 need medical advice before use. Apply sparingly to a small area and do not cover it with a dressing.
Can Hydrocortisone 1% Cream be used for fungal infections?
No, Hydrocortisone 1% Cream is not effective for fungal infections such as athlete’s foot or ringworm. Consult your pharmacist for an appropriate antifungal treatment.
