Hydrocortisone 1% w/w Cream - 15g

What is hydrocortisone cream?

This lightweight cream contains 1% hydrocortisone, a medicine known as a corticosteroid or steroid. If you’re dealing with eczema, dermatitis, or a reaction from an insect bite, hydrocortisone can provide relief.

What is hydrocortisone cream used for?

Hydrocortisone cream can be used to treat or manage multiple inflammatory skin conditions, like:

• mild to moderate eczema
• dermatitis
• insect bites

However, it isn't suitable for treating things like athlete's foot or impetigo.

What does hydrocortisone cream do?

When your skin encounters a trigger, your immune system responds with symptoms like redness, swelling, and itching. Hydrocortisone cream works by calming this immune response, helping to ease your symptoms.

How long does it take to work?

It depends on what you're using it to treat. To relieve itching, hydrocortisone should kick in within a few hours, while visible things like redness and swelling might take a day or two to go down.

For skin conditions like eczema, though, you might only see results after 3-7 days.

How long does it last? 

Once hydrocortisone is applied, it lasts for several hours, meaning it usually only needs to be applied once or twice a day.

Hydrocortisone cream vs ointment

Whether you choose hydrocortisone cream or ointment depends on what you’re treating.

How to use hydrocortisone 1% cream

Here's how to use hydrocortisone:

1. Wash your hands before use.
2. Apply and massage the cream to the affected area once or twice a day for a maximum of seven days (one week).
3. Once applied, don’t cover the area with a dressing or plaster.

If your condition hasn't improved after a week, or worsens, contact a healthcare professional for advice.

Hydrocortisone cream side effects

Hydrocortisone is typically very well-tolerated. However, you might experience:

• mild skin burning
• stinging
• irritation
• dryness

If you experience any side effects that are worrying you, always speak to your prescriber for advice.

Who shouldn’t use hydrocortisone cream

Don't use hydrocortisone cream:

• if you're allergic to hydrocortisone or any of the other listed ingredients
• on a bacterial infection (impetigo), a viral infection (cold sores), or a fungal infection (athlete's foot)
• on your face, near your eyes or genital area, or on broken skin

Storage information

• Store below 25°C.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.
• Store in the original packaging and keep the tube stored in the carton.
• Don't use after the expiry date stated on the tube/carton.

Alternatives to hydrocortisone cream

• Hydrocortisone 1% ointment: works in the same way as the cream but with a thicker, more hydrating consistency. This makes it ideal for dryer skin conditions like eczema.
• Daktacort hydrocortisone cream: can be used to treat fungal infections like athlete's foot and an inflamed sweat rash.
• HC45 hydrocortisone 1% acetate cream: a branded version of hydrocortisone cream. It’s the same strength as the generic version and just as effective.

Frequently asked questions about hydrocortisone cream

Is hydrocortisone a steroid?

Yes, hydrocortisone is a type of corticosteroid, otherwise known as a steroid. However, it's very different from the steroids used to build muscle. Instead, it calms the immune system to reduce redness, swelling, and itching.

Can you buy hydrocortisone cream over-the-counter?

Yes, you're able to buy lower-strength versions of hydrocortisone cream over-the-counter without a prescription.

Can I use hydrocortisone cream on my face?

No, you shouldn't use hydrocortisone cream on your face. This is because your facial skin is very thin and will absorb the cream quickly, meaning it's more likely to cause a skin reaction.

If you're looking to treat a skin condition on your face, speak to a healthcare professional about the best product to use.

Can skin recover from steroid cream?

When you stop steroid cream after long-term use, the skin can go through a rebound reaction known as topical steroid withdrawal (TSW), symptoms of which include bright red or discoloured skin, burning or stinging, and peeling or flaking.

This is why it’s usually advised that steroid creams are only used for short periods at a time. The good news is that your skin can recover; it might just take time.

Sources

• Patient information leaflet. Electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC). [Accessed 30^th July 2026]
• Hydrocortisone for skin. (2025). NHS. [Accessed 30^th July 2026]
• Topical Steroid Withdrawal: What the Eczema Community Needs to Know, Now. (2022). National Eczema Association. [Accessed 30^th July 2026]