Hydrocortisone 1% is a mild topical steroid used to treat certain skin conditions such as mild to moderate eczema. It is available as a cream, ointment and lotion used to treat swelling, itching and irritation.
HOW TO USE
Most people may need to apply hydrocortisone 1% cream or ointment once or twice a day, usually for 1 to 2 weeks. When using it to treat eczema flare ups, you should usually continue treatment for 48 hours after the eczema has cleared.
When applying it to the skin surface, you should:
- Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before use.
- Apply the cream thinly to the affected area, once or twice a day.
- Massage the cream gently into the affected area to help absorption into the skin.
- Once applied, do not cover the area with a dressing or plaster.
- Wash your hands afterwards (unless you are treating the skin on your hands)
Hydrocortisone can make certain skin conditions worse e.g. rosacea, impetigo and acne.
You should not use hydrocortisone if you have any allergies to the medication or its ingredients.
As it is a corticosteroid, among other potential side effects, it can cause skin thinning so it is always important to use the cream thinly in line with the advice provided.
For a full list of potential side effects, please read the patient information leaflet provided with the medication. An example of hydrocortisone 1% cream patient information leaflet can be found by clicking here.
Below are a few tips and advice when storing this treatment:
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
- Do not store above 25˚C.
- Store in the original package and keep the tube in the outer carton.
- Do not use Hydrocortisone Cream after the expiry date which is stated on the tube/carton.
Warning: skin creams can dry onto your clothes and bedding making them more likely to catch fire so you should avoid naked flames.
