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Ubayd Ali

Authored by

Ubayd Ali

Superintendent Pharmacist

Registration Number: 2219322

NHS Pharmacist and founding member of HEBA, with years of experience in healthcare across innovative organisations.
Sufyan Tahir

Reviewed by

Sufyan Tahir

Clinical Governance Lead

Registration Number: 2221275

Review Date 17 March 2026
Next Review 17 March 2028
Published on 17 March 2026
Last Update 17 March 2026

What is Hydrocortisone?

What is Hydrocortisone Cream/Ointment and what is it used for?


Hydrocortisone 1% Cream/Ointment treats inflammation from skin conditions such as allergic reactions, eczema and psoriasis. It is a topical steroid that works to reduce chemicals in the body that cause swelling.

Topical steroids, such as the prescription Hydrocortisone cream, play an important role in eczema treatment. When eczema flares up, applying a steroid-containing medication will reduce inflammation, ease soreness and reduce itching.

1% Hydrocortisone steroid cream/ointment is a generic cream that treats certain skin conditions, such as eczema, dermatitis, & psoriasis. The cream and ointment are corticosteroids and should be applied to affected areas 1-2 times per day, usually for no longer than one week.

How long can I use Hydrocortisone Cream for?
In most cases, a seven-day course of hydrocortisone cream for eczema treatment should be enough to relieve your symptoms and those of most other minor inflammatory skin conditions. Do not use Hydrocortisone for any more than seven days unless instructed to by your doctor.

It’s not recommended to take Hydrocortisone 1% cream/ointment more than twice a day. If this isn’t enough to control your symptoms, seek the advice of your GP.

How does Hydrocortisone work?


Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid. Classed as a mild steroid, it can be used to step down your treatment if stronger steroid preparations are no longer necessary.

Topical corticosteroids have been used for over 50 years to treat various inflammatory skin conditions. They remain one of the most effective treatments, and if used properly, they can control symptoms and restore patients’ quality of life.

Steroids are produced naturally by the body to regulate growth and immune function. There are many kinds of steroids, including anabolic steroids like testosterone and corticosteroids such as cortisol, which are produced by the adrenal glands.

Corticosteroids are very effective at controlling inflammation since they temporarily alter the function of a number of cells and chemicals in the skin.

What if I forget to apply Hydrocortisone?


There is no need to worry if you forget to use a hydrocortisone skin treatment. Take it as soon as you remember unless your next dose is within a few hours. If this is the case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.

What Is Eczema?


Eczema is a skin ailment indicated by redness, dryness, flaky, scaly skin and irritation. Sufferers often scratch, causing skin breaks and bleeding. More serious instances may result in pus-filled blisters and even infected skin.

Most eczema symptoms manifest around the elbows and knees, on the scalp, and on the hands and feet. However, eczema can appear anywhere on your skin, so you may experience it in other areas of your body.

Eczema & dermatitis can affect anyone of any age. Most cases appear before the age of 35 and are chronic, with periods of activity and remission. Common triggers include:

  • Stress
  • Skin injury
  • Excess alcohol consumption
  • Smoking
  • Certain medications
  • Hormonal fluctuations
  • Insect bite reactions*
    *Nummular eczema is commonly triggered by insect bites.

Eczema can also be triggered by skin irritants. This type of eczema is known as irritant dermatitis, and it can lead infants to develop nappy rash. Common triggers include:

Antibacterials and antiseptics
Toiletries and cosmetics
Detergents and soaps
Disinfectants
Oils
Eczema is one of the most common skin issues, affecting around 10% of adults and 20% of children in the UK. Some of the other common skin issues people experience include cold sores, acne and various types of psoriasis — such as widespread plaque psoriasis and generalised pustular psoriasis.

Currently, eczema has no cure. Eczema treatment aims to reduce the severity of symptoms. Topical corticosteroids are the go-to option for mild to moderate cases.

Non-prescription alternatives for Eczema & Dermatitis
Prescription medications such as Hydrocortisone 1% and Hydrocortisone Cream can be highly effective at tackling the symptoms of eczema, such as broken or infected skin.

But prescription medications aren’t the only way of treating eczema. These are some of the over-the-counter treatments you can use to tackle eczema:

  • Moisturisers and emollients - Diprobase and Cetraben
  • Bath and Shower Gels - Dermol 200 and Cetraben Bath Additive
  • Cream and ointment - Cetraben Cream & Ointment
  • Cotton Gloves (to keep from scratching)
  • Antihistamine tablets (to ease the itching) - Loratadine and Cetirizine

Directions

Hydrocortisone Cream 1% should be applied to the affected areas in a thin layer once or twice daily.

Be sure to wash your hands after applying the treatment unless you need to treat the eczema symptoms on your hands.
After it has been absorbed, moisturising skin creams (such as Diprobase or Cetraben) can be applied, if necessary.
When symptoms begin to improve, start using Hydrocortisone less often. You should not use Hydrocortisone for more than 10 consecutive days and should see a health care professional if there is no improvement within the 10-day period.
You don’t need to worry if you find you have missed a dose of your cream or ointment. If this happens, then just apply the cream as soon as you can (unless your next dose is a few hours away) and then return to your previous routine of systemic administration.

Side Effects

Hydrocortisone for eczema is usually safe and does not have any side effects when taken in short courses (less than four weeks). However, if used for long periods, the following rare side effects may occur:

Thinning of the skin
Permanent stretch marks
Allergic contact dermatitis (localised rash or irritated skin), acne, rosacea, or hair growth at the site of application
To minimise the risk of these side effects, apply the cream thinly and only on the affected area of the skin. As Hydrocortisone creams and ointments contain paraffin, they can also pose a fire risk if absorbed into clothes or furniture. If you’ve recently applied Hydrocortisone, keep away from naked flames.

If you are concerned about these effects, or if the product affects you in a different way, stop using it and consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Hydrocortisone 1% warnings
Read the following warnings carefully to ensure you are selecting an appropriate product.

Do not use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream/Ointment if you:

Are allergic to any of its ingredients.
Suffer from skin conditions caused by infections, which are not being treated with antibiotics.
Have scabies mite.
Have rosacea or dermatitis around the mouth area.
Check with your doctor/pharmacist before using Hydrocortisone 1% Cream if:

You are applying the cream to the face and around the eyes.
You have a skin infection, and the condition appears to be getting worse despite prescribed antibiotics. Stop using the cream and contact your health care provider.
You have psoriasis.
You are or will be breastfeeding. It is unknown whether the medication passes into the breast milk when applied to the skin.
The hydrocortisone cream shouldn't come into contact with your eyes, nose or mouth. If the medication gets into these areas, rinse with plenty of water.

Hydrocortisone cream contains cetostearyl alcohol, which may cause local skin reactions such as contact dermatitis. It also contains chlorocresol, which may cause allergic reactions in some people.

Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

Please read all the information and directions on the product package and the Product Information Leaflet before taking any new medications. Inform your doctor or the appropriate healthcare professionals of any medications you are taking or intend to take.

Further Information

Patient Information Leaflet

Summary of Product Characteristics

NHS Eczema Guidance

Verified customer reviews

Frequently asked questions

  • What is Hydrocortisone 1% Cream used for?

    Hydrocortisone 1% Cream is a mild topical corticosteroid used to relieve inflammation, redness, and itching associated with a range of skin conditions including eczema, contact dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, insect bites, and mild allergic skin reactions.

  • How do I apply Hydrocortisone 1% Cream?

    Apply a thin layer to the affected area of skin once or twice daily. Gently rub in until absorbed. Wash your hands before and after application unless the hands are the area being treated. Do not apply under a bandage or dressing unless directed by a doctor.

  • How long can I use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream for?

    For most skin conditions, use should be limited to a maximum of 7 days without consulting a doctor. Prolonged or excessive use can lead to skin thinning and other side effects. If symptoms have not improved after one week, seek medical advice.

  • Can I use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream on my face?

    Hydrocortisone 1% Cream should not be used on the face unless specifically directed by a doctor. Facial skin is thinner and more sensitive, making it more susceptible to side effects such as skin thinning, rosacea, and perioral dermatitis with steroid use.

  • Can I use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream on children?

    Hydrocortisone 1% Cream is not recommended for children under 10 years of age without medical supervision. For children aged 10 and over, it may be used for short periods under parental guidance. Always consult a pharmacist or GP before using on children.

  • What is the difference between Hydrocortisone Cream and Ointment?

    The cream is water-based, lighter in texture, and more suitable for weeping, moist, or acutely inflamed skin. The ointment is greasier and more occlusive, making it better suited to dry, thickened, or scaly skin conditions. Both contain the same active ingredient at the same strength.

  • Can I use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream on broken skin?

    No. Hydrocortisone 1% Cream should not be applied to broken, infected, or open skin. It is intended for intact skin only. If your skin is broken or shows signs of infection such as weeping, crusting, or pustules, consult a healthcare professional before use.

  • Can Hydrocortisone 1% Cream be used for insect bites?

    Yes, Hydrocortisone 1% Cream is effective for reducing the redness, swelling, and itching associated with insect bites and stings. Apply a small amount to the affected area as needed, but limit use to no more than 7 days.

  • Are there any side effects of Hydrocortisone 1% Cream?

    When used correctly and for short periods, side effects are uncommon. However, prolonged or excessive use may cause skin thinning (atrophy), stretch marks, increased skin fragility, or worsening of skin infections. Rare systemic absorption can occur, particularly with overuse or application to large areas.

  • What should I avoid while using Hydrocortisone 1% Cream?

    Avoid applying to the face, groin, or underarm areas unless directed by a doctor. Do not use on infected skin, near the eyes, or under occlusive dressings. Avoid using alongside other topical steroids without medical advice.

  • Is Hydrocortisone 1% Cream available without a prescription?

    Yes, Hydrocortisone 1% Cream is available as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription from a registered pharmacy. It is available to buy online from HEBA Online Pharmacy after a short suitability check.

  • Can I use Hydrocortisone 1% Cream if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

    Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Hydrocortisone 1% Cream if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. While it is considered low risk when used sparingly for short periods, medical guidance is recommended. Avoid applying to the breast area if breastfeeding.

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