Hydrocortisone Cream
Doctor itemA free online consultation is required before this treatment can be supplied.
Frequently asked questions
No, you must not. This is a steroid cream, not an antifungal. Hydrocortisone cream helps reduce inflammation, redness, and itching; however, it does not treat fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, thrush, or ringworm. Using it on these conditions can make the disease worse. You’ll need an antifungal treatment instead — such as clotrimazole or miconazole — to properly treat those infections.
You should not use Hydrocortisone cream if your rash is weepy, oozing, blistered, or looks like a cold sore. These symptoms may indicate a viral infection (such as herpes or cold sores), a bacterial infection, or a fungal infection, and steroid creams can exacerbate such infections.
Instead, speak to a doctor or pharmacist — they can identify the cause and recommend the proper treatment, such as an antiviral, antibiotic, or antifungal cream if needed.
It reduces inflammation by blocking the chemicals that cause redness, itching, and irritation, allowing the skin to settle and recover.
Most people notice improvements within a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the condition being treated.
Yes, but only for short periods and in a skinny layer. In infants, treatment must not exceed 7 days.
Avoid using it on the face unless a doctor advises it. Facial skin absorbs steroids more easily and is more prone to side effects.
Yes, if the rash is caused by inflammation (such as eczema or allergic dermatitis). It should not be used for rashes caused by infections.
Yes, but leave a few minutes between the treatments. Apply Hydrocortisone first, let it absorb, then use your moisturiser.
Only if a doctor tells you to. Covering the area increases steroid absorption and risk of side effects.
Speak to your doctor first. There is a very small risk when used during pregnancy, so medical advice is recommended.
Yes, but do not apply it to the chest area to avoid accidental ingestion by the baby.
Clothing or bedding that comes into contact with the cream can catch fire more easily. Keep away from naked flames and wash fabrics regularly.
Stop using the cream and speak to a doctor or pharmacist. This may be a sign of infection, allergy, or steroid withdrawal.
You can get it from Ashcroft Pharmacy by filling out a short, free online assessment so our pharmacist can make sure it’s right for you. You’ll also find it in most high-street pharmacies and UK supermarkets.