

If a person is pregnant or nursing, they may be able to use OTC hydrocortisone treatments after checking with their doctor.Ĭhildren under age 10 should not use hydrocortisone treatments without the approval of a healthcare professional.īelow are some of the most common questions and answers about hydrocortisone and eczema.
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Strong hydrocortisone treatments are more likely to cause serious side effects if a person uses them on a large area of skin for an extended period. Hydrocortisone products may cause side effects such as: During the first few days of use, a person may experience a burning or stinging sensation.Ī person should not apply hydrocortisone to infected skin, as it may allow the infection to spread. Side effects from mild hydrocortisone treatments are possible, though they are not common if people use the products for less than 4 weeks. wash their hands after applying the product, unless the person is treating eczema on their hands.avoid using the product on their face, around their eyes, and on the area around their genitals, unless a doctor instructs them otherwise.wait at least 10 minutes before putting on a bandage.apply different skin products at different times of the day.wait at least 10 minutes after applying hydrocortisone to apply other moisturizers or topical treatments.avoid applying the product to cuts or to broken or infected skin.apply the product in the direction of hair growth.use clean, dry hands to apply a small of product to the affected area.To use a hydrocortisone product, a person may:
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They should follow the instructions on the label unless a healthcare professional gives them different instructions. To use hydrocortisone to treat eczema, a person may apply a small amount of the product to the affected area up to 4 times per day for up to 7 days. A person should consult a healthcare professional to discuss how long they should use hydrocortisone medications. Usually, a person will need to use hydrocortisone treatments for only a short time. Hydrocortisone treatments may be available as: Stronger hydrocortisone treatments may be available with a prescription.Ī person should consult a doctor to find out the appropriate strength based on the severity of their symptoms. Over-the-counter (OTC) hydrocortisone products may have a mild effect. Hydrocortisone products for the skin typically range in strength from 0.1% to 2.5%. Topical hydrocortisone treatments may also help alleviate eczema symptoms such as swelling, redness, and irritation. Hydrocortisone cream is a low potency steroid medication that lowers inflammation and helps temporarily reduce eczema rashes and itching by increasing natural components in the skin. Itchy skin is the most common symptom of eczema and occurs in most cases. In addition to genetics, the following irritants and allergens may trigger eczema symptoms in some people: Other factors that may worsen eczema symptoms include emotional stress and mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. This deficiency can cause dry, itchy skin.

Another genetic cause may be a deficiency of the protein filaggrin. However, genetics may play a role, since children have a higher chance of getting eczema if one or both of their parents have it or another atopic condition. It often occurs in young children, though it can develop at any age. Eczema can also cause skin redness, dryness, and swelling. Share on Pinterest ROBERT BROOK/Getty ImagesĮczema is a group of conditions that cause skin itch and irritation.
