Hydrocortisone cream works better to combat acne when it’s combined with other treatments.
In one older study, benzoyl peroxide coupled with hydrocortisone worked better to calm breakouts than benzoyl peroxide used alone. The combination treatment worked better, in part, because hydrocortisone counteracted the redness and irritation that benzoyl peroxide can cause as it dries out the targeted acne.
Hydrocortisone cream for pimples
In larger pores, a clog becomes a blackhead. When a smaller pore gets clogged, a whitehead is usually the result. All clogged pores have the ability to evolve into the red, swollen inflammation that people call pimples. If this happens, hydrocortisone can reduce the swelling and redness.
If the blackheads or whiteheads just look like tiny specs, hydrocortisone won’t likely provide any visible improvement. Instead, your pharmacist can recommend an over-the-counter treatment that specifically targets these types of acne.
Hydrocortisone cream for cystic acne
Cystic acne is a more severe form of acne. It usually appears as red, hard, tender, and very irritated nodules. Because inflammation is a key aspect of cystic acne, hydrocortisone cream can help, at least to some extent.
While hydrocortisone can usually make this type of acne appear less red and swollen, it’s a temporary, cosmetic fix, rather than a long-term solution.
How to use hydrocortisone cream for face acne
To treat your acne with topical hydrocortisone cream:
- gently wash your face with a nonirritating cleanser.
- apply a dab of hydrocortisone cream and softly rub it in.
- use it once to four times per day when inflammation is present.
You might also consider using a mild, fine-grained product to exfoliate your skin up to three times per week.
How to avoid Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation
A soothing bit of hydrocortisone on face or body areas can be a savior after irritation from waxing, depilatories, laser treatments, peels, microneedling, and other common cosmetic procedutes especially in darker skin tone patients.
New studies demonstrated that the degree of UVB-induced erythema and hyperpigmentation were reduced in parallel manner by applying topical corticosteroids immediately after UVB irradiation. This observation has led us to speculate that anti-inflammatory properties of topical corticosteroids may have beneficial effects in minimising the risk of PIH occurring after laser irradiation.
Hydrocortisone cream for face Side Effects
Stinging, burning, irritation, dryness, or redness at the application site may occur. Acne, unusual hair growth, small red bumps on the skin (folliculitis), skin thinning/discoloration, or stretch marks may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
If the treated area starts to bleed, especially if you are using this product for anal itching, contact your doctor right away.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Hydrocortisone cream for face precausions
Before using hydrocortisone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (such as prednisone, triamcinolone); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
If you have any health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product.
If you have itching of the outer female genitals with vaginal discharge, consult your doctor before using this product.
Do not use if there is an infection or sore in the area to be treated. Skin infections can become worse when this medication is used. Tell your doctor promptly if redness, swelling, or irritation does not improve.
Children may be more sensitive to the effects of too much corticosteroid medication. Consult your doctor for more details.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk when applied to the skin. Similar medications pass into breast milk when taken by mouth. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
If prescribed by your doctor, use this medication for your current condition only. Do not use it later for other skin problems unless told to do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in those cases.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Refer to the storage information printed on the package. Protect from light and moisture. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
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