How do you take Hydrocortisone?

For the cream (which is most common in Nigeria): Apply a thin layer to the affected skin area 1 to 3 times daily. Gently rub it in and wash your hands after. Do not cover the area with a bandage unless your doctor says so. For tablets or injection, your doctor will prescribe the exact dose, so do not self-medicate with those forms.

What are the side effects of Hydrocortisone?

Mild burning or stinging when first applied, thinning of the skin if used for too long, slight skin dryness, itching at the application site, stretch marks with prolonged use

Who should not take Hydrocortisone?

People allergic to hydrocortisone or any ingredient in the cream, people with untreated skin infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral like ringworm or chicken pox), people with open wounds or broken skin, and those with acne or rosacea on the face.

OTC

Corticosteroid (mild steroid)

Hydrocortisone

Q: What is Hydrocortisone used for?

Skin rashes, eczema, insect bites, itching, heat rash (prickly heat), mild allergic skin reactions, dermatitis, minor skin irritation

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Hydrocortisone is a mild steroid cream that works by reducing swelling, redness, and itching on the skin by calming down your body's reaction to irritation or allergies.

How it works

Binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm, translocating to the nucleus to suppress pro-inflammatory gene transcription and inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators (cytokines, prostaglandins, leukotrienes), thereby reducing erythema, pruritus, and edema in dermatological conditions.

What is it used for?

Skin rasheseczemainsect bitesitchingheat rash (prickly heat)mild allergic skin reactionsdermatitisminor skin irritation

Browse by condition

Skin Infections Allergies Eczema & Skin Rashes Anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs)

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.

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What to watch out for

Do not use hydrocortisone cream for longer than 7 days without a doctor's advice, as long-term use can damage your skin permanently. Buy only from reputable pharmacies: brands like Aksocort, Cortisone Cream, Jamoxone, and Hydrocortisone BP 1% Cream are available in Nigeria. Do not use it to 'bleach' or lighten your skin, as this is dangerous and can cause serious skin damage.

Common Side Effects

Mild burning or stinging when first applied
thinning of the skin if used for too long
slight skin dryness
itching at the application site
stretch marks with prolonged use

Serious Side Effects

Skin infection that gets worse (increased redness, pus, or pain) requires you to see a doctor immediately. Signs of the steroid being absorbed into your body such as unusual weight gain
puffy face
or extreme tiredness mean you should stop use and go to the hospital.

Drug Interactions

Avoid using other steroid creams on the same area at the same time unless your doctor says so. If you are taking blood-thinning medicines like warfarin, let your doctor know. For oral hydrocortisone tablets, avoid taking with NSAIDs like ibuprofen as it increases the risk of stomach problems.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Do not use hydrocortisone cream during pregnancy or while breastfeeding without consulting your doctor, and avoid applying it on the breast area if breastfeeding.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to hydrocortisone or any ingredient in the cream
people with untreated skin infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral like ringworm or chicken pox)
people with open wounds or broken skin
and those with acne or rosacea on the face.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, as Nigerian weather can melt or spoil creams quickly. Keep the tube tightly closed after use. Always keep it out of reach of children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.