DERMACORT

# Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% w/w ## Short Description Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% w/w is a **low-potency topical corticosteroid** used to relieve inflammation, redness, itching and irritation associated with certain skin conditions. It may be used for mild eczema, dermatitis and selected allergic or inflammatory skin reactions. ## Key Benefits * Helps reduce skin inflammation * Relieves itching and irritation * Helps reduce redness and swelling * Provides relief from mild inflammatory skin conditions * May help manage mild eczema and dermatitis * Low-potency corticosteroid suitable for short-term topical use when appropriate ## Uses / Indications Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% w/w may be used for: * Mild eczema * Contact dermatitis * Irritant dermatitis * Mild allergic skin reactions * Inflammatory skin rashes * Itching associated with inflammatory skin conditions * Selected insect-bite reactions It does **not** treat fungal, bacterial or viral infections by itself. ## How It Works Hydrocortisone is a **topical corticosteroid** that reduces inflammatory activity in the skin. It helps decrease the release and activity of substances responsible for: * Redness * Swelling * Itching * Irritation * Inflammation **Hydrocortisone → reduces inflammation → relieves redness, swelling and itching** ## Dosage & Administration * Use only as directed by your doctor or pharmacist * Clean and dry the affected area * Apply a **thin layer** to the affected skin * Gently rub into the skin * It is commonly applied once or twice daily, depending on the condition and product instructions * Wash your hands before and after application unless treating the hands * Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes * Do not apply more frequently or for longer than recommended * Do not cover the area with an airtight or occlusive dressing unless specifically instructed ### Important Use on the **face, skin folds, genital area or in children** should be limited and medically guided because these areas may absorb corticosteroids more readily. ## Side Effects Possible side effects include: * Burning * Stinging * Itching * Dryness * Irritation * Redness Prolonged or excessive use may cause: * Skin thinning * Stretch marks * Easy bruising * Visible small blood vessels * Changes in skin pigmentation * Increased hair growth * Steroid-related acne * Delayed healing Seek medical advice if symptoms become worse or if signs of infection develop. ## Precautions & Warnings * **For external use only** * Do not swallow * Avoid contact with the eyes * Do not use on infected skin unless specifically advised * Do not use for fungal or viral infections without appropriate treatment * Avoid prolonged or excessive use * Do not apply to large areas without medical supervision * Do not use under occlusive dressings unless instructed * Use cautiously on the face and other thin-skinned areas * Children should use topical corticosteroids under appropriate medical guidance * Stop use and seek medical advice if severe irritation or an allergic reaction occurs * Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding ### Infection Warning Hydrocortisone may reduce inflammation and **mask signs of infection**. If a skin condition is caused by a fungal, bacterial or viral infection, using hydrocortisone alone may allow the condition to worsen. ## Drug Interactions Systemic interactions are uncommon with appropriate topical use, but caution is recommended when using: * Other topical corticosteroids * Other corticosteroid-containing medicines * Topical medicines that cause skin irritation * Occlusive dressings, which can increase corticosteroid absorption Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines, creams, ointments and other topical products you are using. ## Storage Information * Store according to the manufacturer's instructions * Keep in a cool, dry place * Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight * Keep the tube tightly closed * Keep out of reach and sight of children * Do not freeze unless instructed by the manufacturer * Do not use after the expiry date ## Prescription Status Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% w/w may be available **with or without a prescription depending on the country, formulation and local regulations**. For children, sensitive areas, persistent rashes or extensive skin conditions, professional medical advice is recommended. ## Genuine Medicine Assurance * Purchase from a licensed and reputable pharmacy * Check the product name and **1% w/w strength** * Verify the manufacturer's name * Check the batch number and expiry date * Ensure the packaging and seal are intact * Do not use products with damaged or suspicious packaging * Follow the manufacturer's storage instructions * Avoid purchasing medicines from unverified sellers * If counterfeit medicine is suspected, consult a pharmacist or the relevant medicine regulatory authority ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% w/w used for? Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% is used to relieve **itching, redness and inflammation** associated with certain mild skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. ### Is Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% a steroid? Yes. Hydrocortisone is a **low-potency topical corticosteroid**. ### Is Hydrocortisone 1% a strong steroid? No. Hydrocortisone 1% is considered a **mild or low-potency corticosteroid** compared with stronger topical steroids such as clobetasol. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% be used for eczema? Yes. It may be used for mild inflammatory eczema when medically appropriate. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% treat itching? Yes. It can relieve itching caused by skin inflammation, but it does not treat every cause of itching. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% treat fungal infections? No. Hydrocortisone is **not an antifungal medicine**. Using a corticosteroid alone on a fungal infection may mask symptoms and potentially worsen the infection. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% be used for ringworm? Hydrocortisone alone is generally not appropriate for ringworm. Ringworm usually requires an appropriate **antifungal treatment**. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% be used for insect bites? It may help reduce itching and inflammation from certain insect bites when appropriate. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% be used on the face? It may sometimes be prescribed for short-term use on the face, but only with appropriate guidance. Prolonged use can cause skin thinning and other facial side effects. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% be used around the eyes? Avoid using it around the eyes unless specifically instructed by a healthcare professional. Prolonged corticosteroid use around the eyes may increase the risk of eye complications. ### Can children use Hydrocortisone 1%? It may be used for certain childhood skin conditions, but children can absorb topical corticosteroids more readily. Use in children should follow professional advice. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% thin the skin? Yes. Prolonged or excessive use can cause **skin thinning, stretch marks and visible small blood vessels**, although the risk is lower than with potent corticosteroids. ### How often should Hydrocortisone 1% be applied? It is commonly applied once or twice daily, but the correct frequency depends on the specific product and condition. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. ### How long can I use Hydrocortisone 1%? Use it for the **shortest duration necessary**. If symptoms persist, recur frequently or worsen, consult a healthcare professional instead of continuing treatment indefinitely. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% be applied to broken skin? Avoid applying it to broken or damaged skin unless specifically recommended by a healthcare professional. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% be used during pregnancy? Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy, particularly if treating large areas or using it for an extended period. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% be used while breastfeeding? Consult your healthcare professional before use. Avoid applying it directly to the nipple or areas that could come into contact with the baby unless specifically instructed. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% be used with other creams? This depends on the other product. Do not combine multiple medicated creams on the same area without professional advice. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% cause acne? Prolonged or inappropriate use may cause or worsen acne-like eruptions, particularly when applied to the face. ### Does Hydrocortisone 1% remove skin redness? It can reduce redness caused by inflammation. Redness caused by infection or another underlying condition may require different treatment. ### What should I do if my rash gets worse after using Hydrocortisone? Stop self-treatment and seek medical advice, particularly if the rash spreads, becomes painful, develops pus or blisters, or shows other signs of infection. ### Can Hydrocortisone 1% be used for psoriasis? It may provide temporary relief from inflammation and itching in selected cases, but psoriasis treatment depends on its severity and location. ### Is Hydrocortisone 1% safe for long-term use? It is generally intended for **short-term or intermittent use**. Long-term use should be supervised by a healthcare professional. ### What happens if I use too much Hydrocortisone? Excessive or prolonged use can increase the risk of skin thinning and corticosteroid absorption. Contact your healthcare professional if you have used substantially more than recommended. ## Medical Disclaimer This information is provided for general educational and SEO purposes only and is **not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment**. Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% w/w is a low-potency topical corticosteroid, but inappropriate or prolonged use can cause adverse effects and may mask or worsen certain infections. Always verify the exact formulation, strength and directions on the manufacturer's label. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before use in children, on the face or other sensitive areas, over large areas, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or when symptoms are persistent, recurrent or unexplained.