Hydrocortisone
Hydrocortisone is a mild corticosteroid that calms itching, redness and swelling on the skin; the shop lists it as Cortaid in 15g tubes.
Hydrocortisone for itchy, inflamed skin
An eczema patch that itches all night, a mosquito bite still swollen the next morning: this is the job hydrocortisone does. It is a synthetic copy of cortisol, a hormone the adrenal glands make, and on the skin it quietens the local immune reaction behind redness, swelling and itch. It is a mild steroid, the bottom rung of the topical ladder. That makes it the usual pick for delicate skin and for short flare-ups that keep coming back.
Typical uses are eczema (atopic dermatitis), contact dermatitis from an irritant or allergen, seborrhoeic dermatitis on the scalp or face, insect bites and general itchy, irritated patches. Hydrocortisone also exists as tablets and injections that replace missing cortisol in the body; the product here is the skin kind.
The Cortaid listing
Cortaid is the shop's hydrocortisone product, sold in 15g tubes for itching, redness and minor skin irritation. Use it on the patch being treated, not spread over other areas of skin, and keep to short runs rather than daily use for months.
Putting it on
Wash and dry the patch, then smooth on a thin, even film and rub it in gently. It is for the skin only, never the eyes or mouth, and the area should not be wrapped or bandaged. On a baby's nappy area, avoid tight nappies or plastic pants over it. Skipped an application? Carry on with the next one; there is no need to double it. The tube is happiest on a shelf out of the sun.
Side effects, and where not to use it
A little stinging or burning is the usual reaction, along with dryness or a rash. Over weeks of repeated use the skin can thin, and acne-like spots, extra hair growth and colour changes are possible. Large areas or long use, especially in children, let enough of the steroid into the body to affect growth.
Steroids do not belong on infected skin, where they can let bacterial, viral or fungal infections spread. Cold sores, impetigo, ringworm and weeping, crusting patches are left alone. Worsening redness, pus or a spreading rash while using it points to infection, and the treatment should stop. A product that has brought no improvement after about a week is also one to stop using.
Sources
- Hydrocortisone Topical: MedlinePlus Drug Information — MedlinePlus
- Hydrocortisone cream 1% w/w - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) - (emc) | 13103 — electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Is Hydrocortisone available to order in Hong Kong?
Yes, online, with delivery to Hong Kong. What you can order is generic Cortaid in 15g tubes, a topical corticosteroid for itching and minor skin irritation. Changed your mind? Cancel within 24 hours, before dispatch. Support is on hand 24/7 in English and Cantonese.
What is the price of Hydrocortisone?
The price depends on the strength and pack size you choose. The Cortaid page shows current prices in HKD or the currency you select.
Do I need a prescription to order Hydrocortisone?
PockDose does not ask you to upload a prescription when you order hydrocortisone. See the ordering FAQ for details.
What is another name for hydrocortisone?
Cortaid and Cortef are brand names of hydrocortisone, which is also sold as Dermacort and Hytone. Here, hydrocortisone can be bought online as generic Cortaid. These are generics, not the original brand.
How often should I apply hydrocortisone?
A small amount, between one and four times a day depending on the product, and less often as the skin settles. It is for a short run: if an over-the-counter product brings no improvement in about a week, stop using it.
Is hydrocortisone cream the same as an antihistamine cream?
No. Hydrocortisone is a steroid that calms the inflammation itself, while an antihistamine cream blocks histamine only. Hydrocortisone covers more skin conditions, such as eczema and dermatitis, and is the usual choice there.
Does hydrocortisone help insect bites?
Yes, for a bite that is red, swollen and itchy but not infected. A thin layer for a few days takes the heat out of it. Skip it on a bite that is oozing or showing signs of infection.
Can I use hydrocortisone on a fungal rash?
No. Steroids can hide a fungal infection such as ringworm and let it spread, so patches that are scaly, ring-shaped or have not responded to hydrocortisone are not for it. It suits inflamed, itchy, non-infected skin.