Numark Hydrocortisone 1% Cream is a mild topical steroid that relieves the itching and inflammation of mild to moderate eczema, dermatitis and insect bites, supplied in a 15g tube by Ways Pharmacy (UK).
Key facts
| Active ingredient | Hydrocortisone acetate 1% w/w |
|---|---|
| Type | Topical corticosteroid — mild potency |
| Format | Cream, 15g tube |
| Treats | Mild to moderate eczema, contact dermatitis, insect bites and skin reactions to irritants |
| Dosing | Apply a small amount once or twice daily for up to 7 days |
| Age | Adults and children aged 10 and over; not for under-10s without a doctor’s advice |
| Where not to use | Not on the face, eyes, broken or infected skin |
| Sold by | Ways Pharmacy, UK (GPhC-registered) |
Who it is for
- Adults and children aged 10 and over with a small patch of mild to moderate eczema or dermatitis
- People with itchy, inflamed insect bites or a reaction to an irritant such as jewellery or detergent
- People who need short-term relief from itching and inflammation rather than a daily moisturiser
Not suitable for: use on the face, around the eyes, on broken or infected skin, or on children under 10 unless a doctor directs. Not for those under 16 without pharmacist advice. Do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice, and ask your pharmacist before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How to use
- Wash and dry your hands before use.
- Apply a small amount thinly to the affected area once or twice daily.
- Smooth it in gently and wash your hands afterwards, unless your hands are being treated.
- Use for no longer than 7 days. If symptoms have not improved, stop and see your pharmacist or doctor.
- For external use only. Avoid the face, eyes and broken skin.
Frequently asked questions
How long does hydrocortisone cream take to work?
Itching and redness often start to settle within a day or two. Use the cream for no more than 7 days without medical advice; if your skin has not improved in that time, stop and speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Can I use hydrocortisone cream on my face?
No. Do not use this cream on the face or around the eyes unless a doctor tells you to, as the skin there is thinner and more easily affected by steroids. Ask your pharmacist if you need something for a facial rash.
Can children use it?
It can be used by children aged 10 and over. Do not use it on children under 10 unless a doctor directs, and seek pharmacist advice for anyone under 16.
Can I use hydrocortisone cream in pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your pharmacist or doctor before using it, so they can confirm it is suitable and advise on how to use it.
Why should I only use it for 7 days?
Mild topical steroids are intended for short courses. Using hydrocortisone for longer than 7 days without advice can thin the skin and may mask an infection. If your skin needs more than a week of treatment, see your pharmacist or doctor.
Safety and storage
- This is a topical steroid — use it for no more than 7 days without medical advice.
- Do not apply to the face, eyes, broken or infected skin, or to children under 10 without a doctor’s advice.
- Stop and seek advice if symptoms worsen, become infected, or do not improve within 7 days.
- Report any suspected side effect via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.
- Do not store above 25 degrees C and keep out of reach of children.
References
- NHS — Hydrocortisone for skin
- Hydrocortisone 1% Cream Patient Information Leaflet (emc)
- Report a side effect — MHRA Yellow Card Scheme
This page provides factual information about a mild topical steroid and is not a substitute for medical advice. Do not use on the face or for more than 7 days without advice. Report suspected side effects via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. Always read the Patient Information Leaflet before use.
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