HOE Foban Hydro Cream

HOE Foban Hydro Cream is a topical combination product containing fusidic acid 2%, an antibiotic effective against bacteria commonly involved in skin infections, together with hydrocortisone acetate, a mild corticosteroid that calms the redness, swelling, and itch that often accompany an infected inflammatory skin condition. Formulated as a lighter, water-based cream rather than an ointment, it spreads and absorbs more easily and is generally preferred for moist or weeping areas, larger surface areas, or where a less greasy feel is desired.

This combination is typically used for short courses to manage mildly infected inflammatory skin conditions such as infected eczema or dermatitis. HOE Foban Hydro Cream is available without a doctor’s prescription in Malaysia, though pharmacist or doctor guidance is recommended before use, particularly for children, application on the face, or if the condition does not improve within the expected treatment period.

Fusidic acid inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, stopping susceptible bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus from multiplying, while hydrocortisone acetate reduces the local inflammatory response by limiting the release of inflammatory mediators in the skin, together addressing both the infection and its accompanying inflammation.

Clean and dry the affected area before applying a thin layer of HOE Foban Hydro Cream, usually two to three times daily or as advised by a pharmacist or doctor, gently massaging it in until absorbed. Wash your hands before and after application unless the hands are the area being treated, and avoid using an airtight dressing over the area unless directed otherwise.

Apply a thin layer of HOE Foban Hydro Cream to the affected skin two to three times a day for up to 7 days, or as directed by a pharmacist or doctor. As with all corticosteroid-containing products, treatment is generally kept short; seek further medical advice if the condition has not improved after a week.

Use HOE Foban Hydro Cream before the expiry date printed on the tube and carton. Discard the product once opened for longer than the manufacturer’s recommended period, or if it shows separation, discolouration, or an unusual smell.

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and keep the tube tightly closed after each use. Keep out of reach of children.

• Known hypersensitivity to fusidic acid, hydrocortisone, or any cream component
• Untreated primary skin infections that are viral (e.g. herpes, chickenpox) or fungal in nature
• Tuberculosis or syphilis affecting the skin
• Acne vulgaris or rosacea
• Use on the eyes or open wounds unless directed by a doctor

• Other topical corticosteroids used concurrently on the same area, increasing risk of skin thinning
• Other topical antibiotics, which may not provide additional benefit and could promote resistance
• Extended occlusive dressings, which increase systemic absorption of both components

• Use for the shortest duration needed to control symptoms, typically no more than 7 days
• Well suited to moist, weeping, or larger areas of affected skin compared with the ointment form
• Do not use an occlusive (airtight) dressing over the treated area unless told to by a doctor
• Seek medical advice if the infection worsens or does not improve within a week
• Consult a pharmacist before use in young children or during pregnancy and breastfeeding

The cream form of the Foban Hydro combination is often chosen over the ointment when the skin is moist, weeping, or when a lighter, quicker-absorbing texture is preferred, such as on larger body areas or in warmer, humid climates. Like the ointment version, it is intended for short, targeted courses rather than continuous long-term use.