HOE Hydrocort 1% Ointment

HOE Hydrocort 1% Ointment is a mild topical corticosteroid ointment containing hydrocortisone 1%, used to relieve redness, itching, swelling, and inflammation of the skin in a range of common conditions such as eczema, contact dermatitis, insect bites, and mild allergic skin reactions.

As a low-strength, over-the-counter corticosteroid, HOE Hydrocort 1% Ointment is generally suitable for short-term use on mild skin inflammation without needing a doctor’s prescription, though a pharmacist or doctor should be consulted if the condition covers a large area, affects the face for a prolonged period, does not improve within about a week, or appears to be infected.

Hydrocortisone is a low-potency corticosteroid that reduces skin inflammation by suppressing the local release of inflammatory chemicals and reducing the activity of immune cells in the skin, which in turn eases redness, swelling, and the urge to scratch, allowing irritated or inflamed skin to settle and heal.

Wash and gently dry the affected area, then apply a thin layer of ointment and rub in gently, usually 1 to 2 times a day or as directed on the packaging or by a pharmacist; wash your hands after use unless the hands are the area being treated, and avoid applying it under airtight dressings unless advised by a doctor.

For adults and children over the recommended age on the packaging, apply a thin layer to the affected skin once or twice daily for up to 7 days for general use; do not use continuously for more than the period recommended on the packaging without seeking medical advice, especially on the face, in skin folds, or in young children.

Unopened, the ointment is generally stable for around 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture; check the expiry date printed on the tube or carton, and discard if it is past this date or if the product’s appearance or smell has changed.

Store below 30°C in a dry place away from direct sunlight, keep the tube tightly closed after use, and keep out of the reach and sight of children.

• Known hypersensitivity to hydrocortisone or other ingredients in the ointment
• Untreated bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infections (including cold sores, chickenpox, and fungal rashes) at the application site
• Acne, rosacea, or perioral dermatitis on the face
• Broken or ulcerated skin unless a doctor advises otherwise
• Long-term continuous use without medical supervision, particularly in infants and young children

• Using other topical corticosteroid products on the same area at the same time may increase the risk of skin thinning and other steroid-related skin changes
• No significant food interactions, as absorption into the general bloodstream is minimal with correct short-term use
• Inform a pharmacist if using other medicated creams, ointments, or dressings on the same skin area
• Avoid applying other irritant skin products, such as strong exfoliants or acne treatments, to the same area at the same time, as this may increase irritation

• Use the smallest amount needed to lightly cover the affected area
• Avoid applying to the face, groin, or underarms for extended periods without medical advice
• Stop and see a doctor if the skin appears to be getting infected (increasing redness, pus, warmth)
• Do not cover the treated area with airtight bandages unless told to by a doctor
• Keep a gap of at least a few hours from other topical products applied to the same area, unless advised otherwise

HOE Hydrocort 1% Ointment contains a low-strength corticosteroid intended for short-term relief of mild skin inflammation and itching. It is not intended for long-term continuous use, for covering large areas of the body, or for use on infected, broken, or facial skin without medical advice. If symptoms persist beyond a week of regular use, or seem to be worsening, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.