Hydrocortisone cream is a topical corticosteroid medication used to reduce inflammation, itching, and redness caused by various skin conditions. It works by decreasing the body's immune response to these irritants, providing relief from discomfort. It is an effective treatment for many common dermatological issues.
Hydrocortisone cream uses include treating:
Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
Dermatitis (contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis)
Psoriasis (mild to moderate)
Insect bites
Insect stings
Allergic skin reactions
Anal and genital itching
Poison ivy
Always use the medicine as directed by your doctor or as per the product instructions:
1 to 4 times a day, based on the condition and severity.
Wash and dry the affected area before application.
Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected skin.
Gently rub it in until it disappears.
Wash your hands after applying
Do not use it for more than 7 days unless advised by a doctor.
Do not use Hydrocortisone cream if you have:
An allergy to hydrocortisone.
Untreated bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infections.
Perioral dermatitis (rash around the mouth).
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist first if you:
Are pregnant
Are breastfeeding.
Have thin or broken skin.
Are applying to large areas of the body
Are applying to the face, groin, or armpits.
Are using on children, especially infants.
Also, remember:
Avoid contact with eyes.
Do not cover the treated area with bandages.
Do not use it for diaper rash without consulting a doctor.
Long-term use can lead to skin thinning, stretch marks, or other side effects.
Most people tolerate Hydrocortisone cream well. However, some might experience:
Burning
Stinging
Irritation at the application site
Dryness
Redness of the skin
Itching
Stretch marks
Changes in skin color
Increased hair growth in the treated area
These are rare but may include:
Allergic reactions
Adrenal suppression
Keep in a cool, dry place.
Store at room temperature.
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Keep out of children's reach.
Available in tubes of 10g.
Available over the counter (OTC), so it doesn’t require a prescription.
Marham enables you to communicate with experienced and trusted doctors who provide expert advice about dosage and the effects of medicine. You can book an online and in-person appointment with specialist doctors through Marham's website, Android app, iOS app, and by calling 03111222398.
The Marham platform strives to offer expert-reviewed information, which includes error elimination for all its consumers. Patients should always consult experts for medical advice instead of relying on this information. The information available on this page is for general information purposes only.