Topical hydrocortisone is a very common steroid medication with a wide array of applications. It is available by prescription and over-the-counter depending on dose and formulation. Most people have come across topical Hydrocortisone for skin conditions like eczema or allergies. However, its use extends beyond skin irritation and even has benefits for hair. In this article we’ll take a deep dive into the multiple benefits of topical Hydrocortisone skin and hair treatments. We’ll discuss how they work, side effects and the best way to use them.
What is Hydrocortisone & How Does it Work?
Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid hormone that plays a crucial role in reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response. When applied topically, Hydrocortisone can help calm irritated skin, manage allergic reactions, and reduce swelling. In small doses, it is generally considered safe and effective for short-term use.
Topical hydrocortisone is available in various forms, including creams, ointments, gels, serums and lotions. This makes it versatile for varying skin concerns and use on different parts of the body. Hydrocortisone is available in concentrations of 1% or lower without prescription in over-the-counter creams. Stronger formulations and less common forms such as solutions or compounded formulas require a prescription. Regardless of strength, it requires cautious use especially if using for prolonged periods or on sensitive areas of the body.
How Does Hydrocortisone Work?
The main way that Hydrocortisone works is by mimicking the natural hormone Cortisol which is a steroid that helps regulate inflammation and immune responses in the body. When applied topically, Hydrocortisone absorbs into the skin where it then suppresses the action of chemicals responsible for inflammation, redness and swelling. As a result, this helps relieve symptoms associated with inflammation and allergy such as itching, pain, swelling and redness.
Topical Hydrocortisone Skin Treatments
Hydrocortisone can treat a variety of skin conditions through its anti-inflammatory and immune regulating functions. The main benefits of topical Hydrocortisone is that it can provide fast relief from the discomfort of itching, redness and swelling. The most common uses of topical Hydrocortisone in the skin include:
- Eczema: This chronic skin condition causes dry, itchy and inflamed skin. Topical hydrocortisone helps reduce eczema flare-ups and soothe the skin irritation.
- Psoriasis: Hydrocortisone cream can help reduce the thick, scaly patches of skin which are a typical feature of Psoriasis. Through this it helps provide relief from inflammation and itching.
- Contact Dermatitis: This is usually caused by a reactions to allergens or irritants. Common riggers include perfumes, cosmetics, soaps or certain fabrics or metals. Topical hydrocortisone can ease the symptoms of contact dermatitis by calming the irritated skin.
- Insect Bites: Insect bites often result in red, swollen and itchy welts. Topical Hydrocortisone skin creams can reduce the swelling and help control the itching.
- Rashes and Allergic Reactions: Hydrocortisone is an excellent steroid for relieving mild allergic reactions like red itchy rashes that appear on the skin.
When using topical Hydrocortisone as a skin treatment, it is essential to apply it sparingly. Usually a thin layer is sufficient to control symptoms and it is typically applied 1-2 times daily. However, instructions may vary depending on the strength of the formula and the severity of the condition. Always use the amounts, frequencies and length of time directed by your medical provider (or follow the manufacturer’s guidelines if it is an OTC treatment). If you have a condition that requires prolonged use or need to use topical Hydrocortisone on sensitive areas like the face, consult with a doctor first. Your medical provider will help ensure that you use this treatment correctly and avoid potential side effects, such as skin thinning.
Topical Hydrocortisone Hair & Scalp Treatments
The benefits of topical Hydrocortisone also extend to the hair and scalp. This is because the scalp is prone to inflammatory conditions like Psoriasis, Seborrheic dermatitis and allergic reactions. Hydrocortisone can offer relief by soothing the scalp and can even reduce any associated hair loss due to this. The main uses of topical Hydrocortisone treatments for the scalp and hair include:
- Scalp Psoriasis: For individuals suffering from Psoriasis on the scalp, topical hydrocortisone can help reduce inflammation. This can help with the discomfort caused by the itchy and scaly Psoriasis plaques.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: This condition causes flaking and itching of the scalp and other oily areas of the skin. TA its mildest it presents as dandruff but when more severe can lead to pain, swelling, irritation and even hair loss. Topical Hydrocortisone can help manage flare-ups, calm the scalp and reduce itching which can damage the hair follicles.
- Allergic Reactions to Hair Products: Hair dyes and styling products sometimes trigger allergic reactions on the scalp, causing irritation and redness. Applying hydrocortisone topical can calm the skin and alleviate symptoms.
- Hair Loss Treatments: In addition to treating Seborrheic dermatitis which can cause hair loss, topical Hydrocortisone can also help in directly. Compounded topical hair loss treatments may contain Hydrocortisone to help reduce irritation from other hair regrowth ingredients like Minoxidil and Tretinoin.
In general topical Hydrocortisone hair treatments usually come in foam or solution forms which can spread better without leaving the scalp greasy or oily. It is generally best to access these through a medical provider who can diagnose your hair condition and prescribe the best strength and form for you.
Risks & Side Effects of Hydrocortisone Steroid Treatments
The word “steroid” often raises concerns, particularly when used in relation to skincare products. Topical Hydrocortisones are synthetic steroids made in the lab which work by imitating the effect of your body’s natural corticosteroids. Due to their application technique, they specifically target and work on the areas of skin or scalp where you have applied them. As such, topical Hydrocortisone is widely considered as safe especially for short-term use. That being said, there are some side effects that can occur particularly if there is excessive application or prolonged use:
- Skin thinning
- Stretch marks
- Discolouration
- Worsening of certain skin infections (inappropriate use can cause contact allergy)
- Hair thinning (long-term or excessive use on the scalp may weaken hair follicles)
Where you use Hydrocortisone also matters as some side effects may be more likely to occur on more sensitive skin or areas like the face. So although Hydrocortisone can be use on the face, the skin on the face is thinner and more sensitive. This means it is more prone to side effects like skin thinning and discolouration which can occur if Hydrocortisone is used for prolonged periods or in excessive doses. To minimise these risks, always follow the dosage instructions and consult with a medical provider where possible. This will ensure that you are using the most appropriate treatment and protocol for your needs.
Lastly, topical Hydrocortisone may not be suitable for everyone. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, are using medications, have allergies or are pregnant or breast feeding then you should see a doctor first to ensure it is safe for you to use. Also whilst, it can be used on children, it’s crucial to only use Hydrocortisone on children as directed by a healthcare provider. Children’s skin is thinner and more sensitive, so they may be more prone to side effects.
Topical hydrocortisone is a versatile and effective treatment for a wide range of skin and scalp conditions. Its ability to reduce inflammation, soothe irritation and calm allergic reactions as well as treat scalp conditions that could otherwise cause hair loss. However, given it is a steroid, it’s important to use it with caution to avoid potential side effects. These are especially likely to occur when treating sensitive areas of the body, excessive application and use for extended periods of time. Although it may be tempting to use topical Hydrocortisones to manage chronic inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or rosacea or scalp seborrheic dermatitis, you mustn’t. Overuse of steroids like hydrocortisone may cause thinning of the skin, hair loss and even long-term damage. If chronic skin or scalp inflammation or irritation is a concern, speak to a Dermatologist or other specialist about safer non-steroid alternatives to Hydrocortisone.
At City Skin Clinic, we are passionate about personalised skincare and hair treatments. Our online skin clinic offers safe and effective compound skincare treatments with prescription-strength ingredients including Tretinoin and Hydroquinone. Our doctors treat a range of conditions such as acne and scars, hyperpigmentation, melasma, skin ageing. We also provide prescription strength hair loss treatments using ingredients like Minoxidil, Finasetride and Dutasteride where appropriate. To start your personalised skincare plan, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin starts here.
