HC45 Hydrocortisone Cream for Itching - 15g

Product Summary

HC45 Hydrocortisone Cream is an effective treatment for itching, irritation and inflammation due to:

• Insect bites.
• Mild to moderate eczema and dry skin.
• Contact or allergic dermatitis caused by nickel allergy, plant allergy and strong detergent chemicals.

HC45 Hydrocortisone Cream contains the active ingredient hydrocortisone acetate, a corticosteroid that is known to treat skin conditions.

HC45 works by altering the body's responses to inflammatory reactions.

Inflammatory reactions occur as an immune response to allergen or irritant which then causes blood vessels to dilate at the affected area, resulting in the irritated area becoming red, swollen, itchy and painful.

• Hydrocortisone cream, when applied to the skin, works by acting inside the skin cells to decrease the release of these inflammatory substances.
• This reduces swelling, redness and itching.
• HC45 is an effective treatment that reduces inflammation and relieves itching and irritation for up to 12 hours and promotes healing.
• Clinically proven and dermatologically tested.

Directions

Please read the enclosed leaflet carefully and check that the tube neck seal is intact before first use.

Adults and children of 10 years and over:

• Apply thinly on small areas, once or twice a day for a maximum of 7 days.
• Do not use it on broken or infected skin.

Ingredients

• Active Ingredient: Hydrocortisone Acetate 1% w/w.
• Other ingredients: White soft paraffin, Cetomacrogol Emulsifying Wax (includes Cetostearyl Alcohol), Liquid Paraffin, Phenoxyethanol, Purified Water

Warnings and Restrictions

• Do not use on eyes or face, anal or genital areas, or on broken or infected skin e.g. impetigo, cold sores, acne or athletes foot.
• Seek advice before using if you are breastfeeding, pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or suffer from allergies.
• Do not use it on children under 10 without medical advice.
• If the condition does not improve after the recommended 7-day treatment period, or you experience any unusual effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
• May cause local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis)

This is a medicine. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have an underlying medical condition, are taking any other medication or complementary therapy, or if symptoms persist.

Storage

Store above 25ºC.

FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY

KEEP ALL MEDICINES OUT OF THE REACH AND SIGHT OF CHILDREN

Pharmacists FAQs Answered

Can HC45 Hydrocortisone Cream be used for allergic skin reactions?

HC45 may help relieve symptoms of mild allergic skin reactions, such as itching or redness from hives or heat rash, but it should only be used if the skin is not broken, infected, or affecting a large area. The cream works by calming the body’s immune response, which helps reduce swelling, irritation, and itchiness. However, hives can sometimes be a sign of a more serious allergic reaction. If the rash spreads quickly, comes with swelling in the face or throat, or causes trouble breathing, medical help should be sought immediately.

What should I do if the itching or rash returns?

If your symptoms return after completing the 7-day course, do not restart treatment without consulting a doctor. Hydrocortisone creams like HC45 are meant for short-term use only. Using steroid creams too often or for too long can thin the skin or cause other side effects. A pharmacist or doctor can help decide if another treatment is needed or if something else is causing your symptoms.

Is HC45 safe to use on sensitive skin or on the neck and underarms?

The skin on areas like the neck, underarms, and groin is thinner and more likely to absorb medication. Because of this, HC45 should be used with extra caution in these areas and only if advised by a doctor. Even though it’s mild compared to stronger steroids, it can still cause skin thinning if overused. Always apply it in a very thin layer and never use it under dressings or bandages unless a healthcare professional has instructed you to do so.

How long does it take to see improvement after applying HC45?

Most people notice relief from itching and redness within a few hours, and many see clear improvement within 2–3 days. However, the cream should still be used for up to 7 days as directed to ensure full healing. If you don’t see any improvement within that time or if the area worsens, it’s essential to consult a doctor or pharmacist to rule out other skin conditions or infections.

What should I do if I accidentally apply too much HC45?

Using a little more by accident is unlikely to cause serious harm, but using too much over time can thin the skin or make it more prone to damage and infections. If you’ve applied too much or used it more than twice daily for over a week, stop using it and consult your local healthcare professional. They can check the area and suggest how to treat your skin safely in the future.

Is HC45 suitable for use on sunburn or after shaving?

No, HC45 should not be used on sunburned or freshly shaved skin. These areas are more sensitive and can absorb more of the active ingredient, which increases the risk of side effects such as burning or skin thinning. For sunburn, it’s best to use a cooling gel or soothing moisturiser. For irritation after shaving, try using a fragrance-free moisturiser and use medicated creams like HC45 only if your local healthcare professional recommends them.

Patient Information Leaflet