DermAid Cream (Hydrocortisone 1%)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is DermAid Cream Used For?
DermAid 1% cream is a topical medication that provides temporary relief from various skin problems. It contains hydrocortisone as the active ingredient to help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Primary Uses
DermAid cream treats dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, rashes from cosmetics and jewelry, itching in genital and anal areas, sunburn, and other types of dermatitis. It provides relief from redness, swelling, itching, and discomfort.
How It Works
The active ingredient hydrocortisone reduces inflammation and itching by suppressing the immune response in the affected skin area, providing relief from symptoms associated with various skin conditions.
Good to know: Your doctor or pharmacist may recommend DermAid cream for other purposes beyond those listed here.
How to Use DermAid Cream
DermAid cream is for external use only and should be applied directly to the affected skin area as directed.
Application Instructions
Apply a thin layer to affected skin 1 to 2 times daily as needed. Use exactly as directed – using less often may reduce effectiveness, while using more often won’t improve results faster and may increase side effects. Clean the area with a soap alternative like Pinetarsol Solution or Gel, as regular soap may irritate skin. For dry skin, you may use an emollient like QV Cream between applications.
What If You Miss an Application?
If you forget to apply DermAid cream, use it as soon as you remember, then return to your normal application schedule. Don’t try to make up for missed applications by using more than usual.
Important: If your condition persists for more than 7 days, stop using the cream and consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Slight stinging sensation after application (usually temporary and disappears after several uses)
- Burning
- Itching
- Dryness
- Redness
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Allergic reaction
- Thinning of the skin
- Blurred vision or other vision disturbances
Important Warnings
There are several important safety considerations before using DermAid cream to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Who Should Not Use DermAid Cream
Do not use if you’re allergic to hydrocortisone or other corticosteroids. Avoid using on viral skin infections (cold sores, shingles, chicken pox), fungal infections (thrush, tinea, ringworm), or bacterial infections (impetigo, boils) unless directed by your doctor. Never use in the eyes.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
The cream can mask signs of infection, so keep treated areas clean. If infection is suspected, it should be controlled first. Don’t use under plastic film unless specified by your doctor. Avoid getting cream in eyes – rinse with clean water if this occurs.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your doctor will determine if DermAid cream is safe for you during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Do not apply to breasts before breastfeeding.
Use in Children
Do not use on children under 2 years of age unless directed by your doctor.
Stop use immediately: Discontinue use if irritation or sensitivity occurs and consult your healthcare provider.
Drug Interactions
While no generally recognized drug interactions are attributed to hydrocortisone, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re using.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about other creams, ointments, or lotions you’re using
- Inform them about any oral medications you’re taking
Alcohol & Driving
No specific restrictions mentioned for alcohol consumption or driving while using DermAid cream, as it is a topical medication.
Storage
Store DermAid cream in a cool, dry place below 25°C (77°F). Do not refrigerate. Keep away from children in a locked cupboard at least 1.5 meters above ground. Don’t leave in cars or on windowsills as heat can reduce effectiveness. Don’t use after the expiry date printed on the pack. Only use if the tamper-evident seal is intact.
Overdose Information
If you accidentally apply too much cream, wipe off the excess. Using more than directed won’t improve your condition faster and may cause increased side effects. If you accidentally swallow the cream, contact the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26 in Australia or 03 474 7000 in New Zealand) or your doctor immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cream should provide relief from symptoms like itching and inflammation relatively quickly. However, if your condition doesn’t improve within 7 days, stop using the cream and consult your doctor or pharmacist.
While the cream can be used on skin, avoid getting it in your eyes. If this happens, rinse your eyes with clean water. If irritation persists, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
You must tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your doctor will determine if DermAid cream is safe for you to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you’re using other creams, ointments, or lotions. For dry skin, you may use an emollient like QV Cream between applications of DermAid cream.
If irritation or sensitivity occurs, discontinue use immediately and consult your doctor or pharmacist. A slight stinging sensation may occur initially but usually disappears after several applications.
Do not use on viral, fungal, or bacterial skin infections unless your doctor tells you to. The cream can mask signs of infection, so any suspected infection should be controlled first.
Clean with a soap alternative such as Pinetarsol Solution or Pinetarsol Gel, as regular soap may irritate the skin further.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.