Hydrocortisone Cream 1%

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:

1. Eczema and dermatitis
2. Insect bites and stings
3. Allergic skin reactions
4. Rashes caused by irritants, such as soaps or detergents
5. Mild psoriasis
6. Itchy, red, or inflamed skin due to other non-infectious causes

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:

1. Reducing inflammation by suppressing the immune response in the affected area.
2. 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:

1. Clean and dry the affected area of skin.
2. Using fingertips units (see below), apply an appropriate amount of cream to the affected area
3. Wash your hands thoroughly after application (unless you are treating your hands).

Avoid prolonged use or applying large amounts of the cream to large areas of the body. Do not use on broken or infected skin unless advised by your doctor.

If after 7 days there is no improvement we suggest you contact your doctor for further advice.

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

Other ingredients may vary slightly depending on the brand.
Active ingredients: Hydrocortisone
Other ingredients: Cetomacrogol Emulsifying Wax, chlorocresol, liquid paraffin, macrogol 300, white soft paraffin, purified Water

Precautions for using Hydrocortisone 1% Cream

1. Do not use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream if you are allergic to hydrocortisone or any of its ingredients.
2. Avoid using on the face unless specifically advised by a doctor.
3. Do not apply to broken, infected, or ulcerated skin without medical advice.
4. Do not use on nappy rash or fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot or ringworm.
5. Consult your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen after 7 days of use.

Possible side effects of Hydrocortisone 1% Cream

Side effects are rare but may include:

1. Skin thinning or discoloration with prolonged use
2. Mild irritation or stinging at the application site
3. Increased sensitivity of the skin

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:

1. Avoid triggers such as harsh soaps, allergens, or irritants that may worsen symptoms.
2. Keep your skin moisturized with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to support the skin barrier.
3. Wear loose-fitting clothing to reduce irritation caused by friction or sweating.
4. Avoid scratching the affected area to prevent further irritation or infection.
5. Follow your doctor’s instructions for treatment duration to avoid overuse.

How to store Hydrocortisone 1% Cream

Store Hydrocortisone 1% Cream at room temperature, below 25°C. Keep the tube tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.

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 legimate pharmacy.

More information

Find the link to the patient infromation: Hydrocortisone Patient Information Leaflet