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Stocksy
In This Article
When it comes to acne treatments, we’ve heard it all.
So we were a little skeptical when we heard about the blemish-busting powers of hydrocortisone cream.
Stocksy
You’re probably familiar with a tube of the anti-inflammatory stuff tucked in your parents' medicine cabinet.
But acne?Really?
Meet the Experts
What Is Hydrocortisone?
“Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid, a medicine that reduces inflammation,” explains Dr. Zeichner.
Still, over-the-counter hydrocortisone may offer a similar benefit to the injectable cortisone, says Dr. Zeichner.
How often can you use it:Apply no more than twice daily for a few days.
Works well with:Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, and retinoids.
Dont use with:Other hydrocortisone products or on cortisone injection sites.
Is Hydrocortisone Suitable for Acne Treatment?
However, it definitely is effective at soothing inflammation.
The occlusive texture of an ointment can be inherently pore-clogging, says Dr. Carqueville.
“Overuse of topical steroids can lead to thinning and discoloration of the skin,” cautions Dr. Carqueville.
She advises using hydrocortisone on a blemish no more than twice daily, for two days max.
No, thank you.
Dab this concoction directly onto the pimple.
Not a fan of whipping up skincare in your kitchen?
Repeat this in the evening, swapping thebenzoyl peroxideproduct for one with either a two-percentsalicylic acid productor an over-the-counterretinoid.
Hydrocortisone cream is a common anti-inflammatory treatment for skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, says Dr. Carqueville.
It also reduces redness and inflammation from breakouts when used as a spot treatment.
You shouldn’t combine hydrocortisone cream with other corticosteroids or on cortisone injection sites.
Hydrocortisone cream should not be applied more than twice daily for up to two weeks.
Gabros S, Nessel TA, Zito PM.Topical corticosteroids.In:StatPearls.
StatPearls Publishing; 2021.
In:LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; 2012.
Hydrocortisone topical: uses, side effects, interactions, pictures, warnings & dosing- webmd.
