Hydrocortisone cream 1%: uses, how often, and when not to use it
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- Cortizone-10 Maximum Strength Soothing Aloe Cream. Best for: General itch from bites, plants and rashes. See options on Amazon
- Vanicream HC Anti-Itch Cream 1%. Best for: People who prefer a short ingredient list. See options on Amazon
- Store-brand hydrocortisone 1% cream. Best for: Keeping a tube in a first aid kit. See options on Amazon
What hydrocortisone cream does
Hydrocortisone belongs to a class of medicines called corticosteroids. MedlinePlus says topical hydrocortisone is used to treat redness, swelling, itching and discomfort of various skin conditions, and that it comes as an ointment, cream, solution, spray or lotion.
Over the counter, the label purpose is anti-itch. Cortizone-10 Maximum Strength and Vanicream HC both list hydrocortisone 1% as the active ingredient; Vanicream lists it as hydrocortisone acetate 1.12%, equivalent to hydrocortisone 1%.
What the label says it is for
| Use on the label | Who | How often |
|---|---|---|
| Itching from minor skin irritation, inflammation and rashes | Adults and children 2 years and older | Not more than 3 to 4 times daily |
| External anal and genital itching | Adults; ask a doctor for children under 12 | Not more than 3 to 4 times daily, after gentle cleaning |
| Children under 2 years | Ask a doctor | Do not use without a doctor |
Details are from the Cortizone-10 and Vanicream HC Drug Facts labels on DailyMed. The rash causes listed include eczema, psoriasis, poison ivy, oak and sumac, insect bites, detergents, jewelry, cosmetics, soaps and seborrheic dermatitis. Other uses should only be under a doctor's advice and supervision.
How to apply it
- Thin layer. MedlinePlus says to apply a small amount to cover the affected area with a thin, even film and rub it in gently.
- Stay within the limit. Not more than 3 to 4 times daily, and do not use more than directed unless a doctor tells you to.
- No wraps unless told. MedlinePlus says not to wrap or bandage the treated area unless your doctor tells you to.
- For anal or genital itch. The label says to clean the area with mild soap and warm water when practical, rinse, and pat dry with toilet tissue or a soft cloth before applying. Do not put it into the rectum with fingers or any applicator.
- Avoid the eyes. Keep it away from your eyes and mouth.
When not to use it
- Diaper rash. The label says do not use for the treatment of diaper rash; consult a doctor. See our diaper rash cream guide instead.
- Vaginal discharge. Do not use in the genital area if you have a vaginal discharge; consult a doctor.
- Babies. Children under 2: ask a doctor first. MedlinePlus notes that children who use topical hydrocortisone may have a higher risk of side effects, including slowed growth.
- Other hydrocortisone products. If symptoms return, do not begin any other hydrocortisone product without asking a doctor, the label says.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have diabetes, MedlinePlus advises.
The 7-day rule and side effects
Stop use and ask a doctor if your condition worsens, if symptoms persist for more than 7 days, or if they clear up and occur again within a few days. Also stop and get help if rectal bleeding occurs. MedlinePlus likewise says that if over-the-counter hydrocortisone does not help within 7 days, stop using it and call your doctor.
MedlinePlus lists possible side effects including burning, itching, irritation, redness or dryness of the skin, acne, and skin color changes. Call a doctor right away for a severe rash or signs of skin infection where you applied it.
Other itch options
Hydrocortisone is one of several over-the-counter itch products. For itchy rashes from plants and bites, see our calamine lotion guide. For a non-steroid skin protectant for eczema and rashes, see our colloidal oatmeal lotion guide. For long-term eczema or psoriasis care, see our eczema cream and psoriasis cream guides.
Keep hydrocortisone out of reach of children. If someone swallows it, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
What to look for when you buy
Cortizone-10 Maximum Strength Soothing Aloe Cream
Best for: General itch from bites, plants and rashes
Its label lists hydrocortisone 1% for itching from eczema, psoriasis, poison ivy, insect bites and more.
Watch out: Not more than 3 to 4 times daily; not for diaper rash.
See options on AmazonVanicream HC Anti-Itch Cream 1%
Best for: People who prefer a short ingredient list
Its label lists hydrocortisone acetate 1.12%, equivalent to hydrocortisone 1%, with the same anti-itch uses.
Watch out: Ask a doctor for children under 2.
See options on AmazonStore-brand hydrocortisone 1% cream
Best for: Keeping a tube in a first aid kit
Several store brands sell 1% hydrocortisone cream; confirm the Drug Facts label lists hydrocortisone 1%.
Watch out: Check the active ingredient and directions on the box.
See options on AmazonQuestions people ask
- What is hydrocortisone cream used for?
- The label says temporary relief of itching from minor skin irritations, inflammation and rashes, plus external anal and genital itching.
- How often can I use hydrocortisone cream?
- Adults and children 2 and older: not more than 3 to 4 times daily.
- How long can I use it?
- Stop and ask a doctor if symptoms last more than 7 days or keep coming back.
- Can I use hydrocortisone on a baby?
- Ask a doctor for children under 2, and do not use it for diaper rash.
- Can I use it on my face?
- Keep it away from your eyes and mouth; ask a doctor before regular use on facial rashes.
Sources
- Cortizone-10 Soothing Aloe Creme (hydrocortisone) label (dailymed.nlm.nih.gov), DailyMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Vanicream HC Anti-Itch (hydrocortisone) Cream label (dailymed.nlm.nih.gov), DailyMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Hydrocortisone Topical (medlineplus.gov), MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine