Pharmacist's Verdict
Hydrocortisone cream is an essential, effective, and affordable first-aid staple for temporarily relieving itching and inflammation from minor skin irritations like bug bites and mild rashes.
Ingredient Analysis
Hydrocortisone 1%
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Quickly reduces itching, redness, and swelling.
- Widely available over-the-counter at a low cost.
- Effective for a variety of minor skin issues like insect bites, poison ivy, and mild eczema.
- Well-researched with a long history of safe use when used as directed.
Cons
- Not for long-term use; using for more than 7 days can thin the skin or cause discoloration.
- Can worsen fungal or bacterial skin infections by hiding the symptoms.
- Should not be used for certain conditions like diaper rash, acne, or in the eyes.
- Low strength may not be effective for severe skin conditions like psoriasis.
Safety Information
Warnings
Warnings For External Use Only If pregnant or breast-feeding Ask a health professional before use Do not use • In the eyes • For diaper rash • For external genital or feminine itching if you have a vaginal discharge • More than the recommended daily dosage unless directed by a doctor • In the rectum by using fingers or any mechanical device or applicator Stop use and ask a doctor if • Condition worsens or if symptoms persist for more than 7 days or clear up and occur again within a few days (do not continue to use this or any other hydrocortisone product for longer than 7 days) • Bleeding occurs due to anal itching Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) right away.
Is Hydrocortisone Cream safe for you?
See pregnancy, interactions, and common concerns answered in our pharmacist safety FAQ.
Read safety review →References
- 1.FDA Drug Label — anti itch
FDA DailyMed: anti itch · FDA
- 2.FDA Drug Label — PS-2896 Hydrocortisone Cream 1%, 0.9g
FDA DailyMed: PS-2896 Hydrocortisone Cream 1%, 0.9g · FDA
- 3.The effects of physical activity on cortisol and sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
De Nys L, Anderson K, Ofosu EF, et al., Psychoneuroendocrinology, 2022 · PubMed
- 4.Effectiveness of stress management interventions to change cortisol levels: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Rogerson O, Wilding S, Prudenzi A, et al., Psychoneuroendocrinology, 2024 · PubMed
- 5.Effectiveness of Fludrocortisone Plus Hydrocortisone versus Hydrocortisone Alone in Septic Shock: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Teja B, Berube M, Pereira TV, et al., American journal of respiratory and critical care medicine, 2024 · PubMed
- 6.Mindfulness mediates the physiological markers of stress: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
Pascoe MC, Thompson DR, Jenkins ZM, et al., Journal of psychiatric research, 2017 · PubMed