
Hydrocortisone cream is generally safe and effective when used as directed. It is available over the counter in concentrations of up to 1% hydrocortisone, while higher concentrations are available by prescription only. If you have been identified as having adrenal insufficiency, you must keep a steroid crisis card with you.Ĭlobetasol propionate should only be used as directed by a doctor and even then, only for a few weeks at most.Ĭorticosteroids are commonly found in prescription creams for the treatment of atopic dermatitis (e.g., hydrocortisone 10%) or psoriasis (e.g., tacrolimus 2%). This is when the body's natural production of cortisol (a hormone produced by the adrenal glands) is reduced. Prolonged use can also lead to adrenal suppression, which one of the more common side effects of hydrocortisone cream. Using hydrocortisone for a long period of time can also lead to long-term side effects, such as thinning of the skin, stretch marks, easy bruising, and changes in pigmentation.

#CORTISONE CREAM SKIN#
While hydrocortisone can be used safely for short periods of time, repeatedly applying it to the skin can cause redness and itching. Clobetasol propionate, a stronger type of corticosteroid, is available by prescription and is typically used in the treatment of more serious skin conditions such as psoriasis.

Hydrocortisone, a milder form of corticosteroid, can be found in over-the-counter itch creams and anti-inflammatory products. When it comes to steroids in skincare, it seems like they’re in everything these days.
