What is Hydrocortisone Ointment?

Hydrocortisone 1% ointment is a mild corticosteroid treatment used on the skin to reduce inflammation, redness, and itching. It is applied directly to affected areas to relieve irritation caused by eczema, dermatitis, insect bites, or allergic skin reactions.

How does Hydrocortisone Ointment work?

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that acts on the skin to calm the body’s inflammatory response. It reduces swelling, redness, and itching by lowering the activity of chemicals that cause irritation. The ointment base also helps to lock in moisture, making it especially suitable for dry, scaly skin.

When to consider Hydrocortisone Ointment

Eczema and dermatitis flare-ups
Allergic skin reactions
Irritation from insect bites or stings
Mild inflammatory skin conditions not caused by infection

Who can use Hydrocortisone Ointment

Adults and children aged 10 years and above, unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional
Suitable for short-term use to relieve mild skin inflammation

Who should not use Hydrocortisone Ointment

Children under 10 years old without medical advice
On infected skin (bacterial, viral, or fungal infections) unless combined with an appropriate treatment
On broken skin, acne, rosacea, or around the eyes
For long-term continuous use without medical supervision

How to use Hydrocortisone Ointment

1. Apply a thin layer to the affected area once or twice daily
2. Gently smooth into the skin, using only on affected areas
3. Wash your hands after applying unless treating your hands
4. Do not cover with airtight dressings unless directed by a doctor
5. Use for up to 7 days unless advised otherwise

Possible side effects

Hydrocortisone ointment is usually well tolerated. Some people may notice:

Temporary burning or stinging at the application site
Thinning of the skin with prolonged use
Rarely, allergic skin reactions

Alternatives to Hydrocortisone Ointment

• Hydrocortisone cream (lighter formulation, better for moist or weeping areas of skin)
• Antihistamine tablets for allergic reactions
• Emollients and moisturisers for ongoing skin hydration

Can you buy Hydrocortisone Ointment over the counter?

Yes. In the UK, hydrocortisone 1% ointment is available from pharmacies without a prescription for short-term use on mild inflammatory skin conditions. Stronger formulations and long-term use require medical advice.

Directions for Use

Adults and children (over 10 years old unless prescribed):

Apply a thin layer of ointment to the affected area once or twice daily.

Application:

Gently rub into the skin until absorbed. Use only on affected areas.

Duration:

Treatment should not usually continue for more than 7 days without medical advice. If symptoms do not improve, seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist.

Children:

Only use under medical supervision in children under 10 years of age.

Special areas:

Do not apply to the face, eyes, genitals, or broken skin unless specifically instructed by a doctor.

Occlusion:

Do not use under airtight dressings or bandages unless directed by a doctor, as this increases absorption and risk of side effects.

Hands:

Wash hands after applying, unless the hands themselves are being treated.

Important precautions

• For external use only.
• Do not use on infected skin (fungal, viral, or bacterial) unless combined with suitable antimicrobial treatment.
• Avoid long-term continuous use to reduce the risk of skin thinning.
• Discontinue if irritation or allergic reaction occurs.

Active ingredient

Hydrocortisone 1% w/w

Inactive ingredients (excipients)

White soft paraffin
Liquid paraffin

This simple ointment base makes it thicker and more occlusive than the cream, which is why it is often recommended for dry, scaly, or lichenified skin.

Common side effects (uncommon with short-term use):

Mild burning, stinging, or irritation at the application site
Dryness or itching of the skin

Less common side effects (more likely with prolonged or excessive use, or use under occlusion):

• Thinning of the skin (atrophy)
• Stretch marks (striae)
• Easy bruising
• Changes in skin pigmentation
• Acne-like eruptions or worsening of existing acne
• Perioral dermatitis (rash around the mouth)
• Excessive hair growth (hypertrichosis) at the site of application

Rare but serious side effects (usually with long-term, high-dose use over large areas of skin):

• Absorption into the bloodstream leading to systemic effects such as suppression of the adrenal glands, weight gain, or Cushing’s syndrome
• Worsening of untreated skin infections

Allergic reactions:

• Rash, redness, or worsening irritation
• Very rarely, signs of hypersensitivity such as swelling or difficulty breathing (requires urgent medical attention)