Hydrocortisone 1% Ointment for Inflammatory Skin Conditions

 

You can use this topical corticosteroid to treat various inflammatory skin conditions including eczema, dermatitis, and insect bites. The ointment formulation provides enhanced moisturising properties compared to cream preparations, making it particularly suitable for dry or thickened skin areas.

This medicine contains 1% hydrocortisone, which belongs to a group of medicines called topical corticosteroids. It works by reducing inflammation, redness, and itching in affected skin areas. The ointment base helps to protect and hydrate your skin whilst delivering the active ingredient effectively.

 

How Hydrocortisone Ointment Reduces Skin Inflammation

 

The active ingredient works by suppressing the inflammatory response in your skin cells. When you apply the ointment, hydrocortisone penetrates the skin layers and reduces the production of inflammatory substances that cause redness, swelling, and itching.

This anti-inflammatory action helps to break the cycle of scratching and further skin damage. The ointment formulation creates a protective barrier on your skin surface, which helps to prevent moisture loss and supports the natural healing process.

 

Who Can Benefit from Steroid Ointment Treatment

 

This treatment is suitable for adults and children over 10 years of age who experience mild to moderate inflammatory skin conditions. You may find it particularly helpful if you have dry, scaly, or thickened skin that requires both anti-inflammatory treatment and enhanced moisturisation.

The ointment is especially beneficial for treating:

• Eczema and atopic dermatitis flare-ups
• Contact dermatitis from irritants or allergens
• Insect bites and stings causing localised inflammation
• Dry, itchy skin patches that haven't responded to moisturisers alone

If you're looking for additional skin care support, you might also explore our comprehensive skin care range for complementary products.

 

Why Choose Ointment Over Cream Formulations

 

The ointment base contains a higher concentration of occlusive ingredients compared to creams, which creates a more effective barrier against water loss. This makes it particularly suitable for treating dry, scaly, or lichenified skin conditions where enhanced moisturisation is needed alongside anti-inflammatory action.

Ointments typically contain fewer preservatives than cream formulations, reducing the risk of sensitisation reactions in people with sensitive skin. The hydrocortisone 1% ointment provides longer-lasting contact with your skin, allowing for more sustained therapeutic effect between applications.

 

Clinical Suitability and Storage Requirements

 

You should store this medicine below 25°C and keep it away from direct sunlight to maintain its effectiveness. The ointment should be used within the expiry date printed on the packaging and discarded appropriately after your treatment course is complete.

This formulation is suitable for short-term use as directed by healthcare professionals. You should not use it on broken or infected skin unless specifically advised by your doctor or pharmacist, as this may affect healing or mask signs of infection.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.