Hydrocortisone Cream

Buy Hydrocortisone 1% w/w Cream

Hydrocortisone 1% w/w Cream is a mild corticosteroid used to treat itching, redness and swelling caused by eczema, dermatitis and allergic skin reactions. It works by calming your skin’s natural response to irritation and inflammation. Because it’s mild, it’s suitable for short-term use and can be applied to sensitive areas when used with care. It helps relieve discomfort from eczema flare-ups, insect bites, and contact reactions caused by items such as jewellery or cleaning products.

Hydrocortisone steroid cream offers long-lasting comfort, helping skin stay calm while it heals. Used correctly, it supports the skin’s natural repair process and can be used on most skin types, including in children (for short periods only).

It is used for the temporary relief of:

• Mild to moderate Eczema
• Dermatitis (irritant or allergic)
• Insect Bite Reactions
• Seborrhoeic Dermatitis
• Fungal Sweat Rash (Intertrigo)
• Photodermatitis (inflammation from sun sensitivity)

The smooth white cream absorbs easily without greasiness, and as a generic medicine, it provides the same results as branded versions (Brands: Derma Care, HC45) at a lower cost.

You can buy 1% hydrocortisone cream over the counter in the UK from pharmacies and supermarkets without a prescription. However, it is not suitable for use on broken or infected skin, or on the face or around the eyes. Higher-strength versions are prescription-only.

Hydrocortisone is a mild corticosteroid that reduces inflammation by stopping the release of irritating chemicals in the skin. As a result, it helps bring down redness, itchiness, and swelling from common short-term skin conditions or reactions, including eczema flare-ups, allergies, and insect bites.

Hydrocortisone 1% w/w Cream is suitable for adults and children for short-term inflammatory skin flare-ups. For babies and infants, it must be used very lightly and for a maximum of 7 days, as the skin absorbs more steroid under nappies. It should not be used by anyone with a skin infection or anyone allergic to hydrocortisone or the listed ingredients.

External use only; avoid eyes, mouth, genitals.

Do NOT use if:

• You are allergic to hydrocortisone or any of the listed ingredients.
• The skin is infected (bacterial, viral, or fungal).
• You have acne, rosacea, or perioral dermatitis.

Use with care:

• For infants (up to 7 days) and children, apply sparingly.
• Do not cover the treated area unless instructed to do so by a doctor.
• Keep away from naked flames – fabrics can catch fire more easily after contact with the cream.

During pregnancy or breastfeeding:

• Ask your doctor before using.
• Do not apply to the chest area while breastfeeding.

Allergy alert:

• Contains chlorocresol and cetostearyl alcohol, which may cause allergic skin reactions.

How to apply Hydrocortisone 1% w/w cream?

Hydrocortisone 1% w/w cream is a topical corticosteroid treatment designed to be applied directly to the affected area. Follow the directions provided by your doctor or Ashcroft pharmacist and use the Patient Information Leaflet to apply it safely and correctly.

Instructions

• Always wash your hands before and after applying the cream (unless you are treating a specific area of your hands).
• Make sure the skin is clean and dry.
• Apply the cream sparingly to the affected area. A thin layer is all you need.
• Gently massage it into the skin until it has been fully absorbed.
• Do not cover the treated skin with a plaster, bandage, or dressing.

How much to use & for how long?

• How much? This is a mild steroid, so only use a thin layer. "Sparingly" is the most important instruction.
• How often? Apply it 1 to 4 times a day. As your skin improves and the flare-up subsides, you can use it less frequently (2-3 times per day).
• How long? Do not use this cream for more than 7 days. If your skin has not improved after one week, or if it worsens, discontinue use of the cream and consult your doctor.

What if I forget a dose or use too much?

• If you forget a dose: Don't worry. Just apply it as soon as you remember. Then, space out the next doses as usual. Don't apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• If you use too much: Using a bit too much on your skin is unlikely to cause a problem.
• If you swallow it: If you or a child accidentally swallows the cream, contact your doctor immediately. Take the tube and leaflet with you.
• Sources.

Local irritation or allergy; rare skin thinning/striae with overuse or long durations.
Steroid withdrawal reactions can happen after prolonged inappropriate use (redness, burning, peeling). Use short-term only unless told otherwise.

This is a mild steroid cream that reduces inflammation. It is NOT an antifungal or antibiotic. Using a steroid on an active infection can make it significantly worse. Do NOT use this cream on infected skin, such as:

• Fungal Infections (Athlete's Foot, Ringworm, Thrush)
• Bacterial Infections (Impetigo)
• Viral Infections (Cold Sores, Herpes)
  If your skin is broken or "weepy," speak to your pharmacist before use.

Appearance: Homogenous, white cream in an aluminium tube.

• Pack sizes (licenced): 5g, 10g, 15g, 20g, 30g, 50g.
• Availability: Not all pack sizes are marketed at all times. We list the sizes currently in stock on this page.
• Packaging note: This is a generic medicine; branding/pack design may vary from images shown.

• Keep out of sight and reach of children.
• Do not store above 25°C.
• Do not use after the expiry date.