The crucial distinction: Soov Cream vs. Soov It Ointment
The most important detail when asking, "Is Soov a steroid cream?" is to clarify which specific product is being referenced. The brand offers several different creams and ointments, each with a unique formula designed for a specific purpose. The misconception likely arises from the fact that one product, Soov It Ointment, does contain a steroid, whereas the more common, general-purpose Soov Cream does not.
Soov Cream: A non-steroidal antiseptic and anaesthetic formula
Soov Cream is a general-purpose antiseptic cream widely used for minor first-aid situations. It is formulated to soothe pain and help prevent infection in minor wounds, and its active ingredients are not steroids.
Active ingredients in Soov Cream include:
- Lignocaine (Lidocaine) Hydrochloride: This is a local anaesthetic that numbs the skin, providing fast and soothing pain relief for minor skin injuries.
- Cetrimide: An antiseptic agent that helps to cleanse minor wounds and prevent infection.
- Chlorhexidine Gluconate: Another antiseptic included to further protect against bacterial infection.
This combination of ingredients is effective for cuts, grazes, minor burns, and sunburn. It is important to note that because it does not contain a steroid, it is not primarily intended to treat inflammatory conditions like eczema or dermatitis, and product directions often explicitly warn against this use.
Soov It Ointment: A targeted steroid and anaesthetic treatment
For relief of haemorrhoids and other anorectal disorders, the brand offers a specific product called Soov It Ointment. This ointment contains a different set of active ingredients that explicitly includes a steroid.
Active ingredients in Soov It Ointment include:
- Hydrocortisone: This is a mild topical corticosteroid (steroid) that works by reducing inflammation and redness, which are common symptoms of haemorrhoids.
- Lignocaine (Lidocaine): Similar to the antiseptic cream, this ingredient provides anaesthetic relief to numb the pain and itching associated with the condition.
Because of the hydrocortisone, Soov It Ointment is used for specific inflammatory conditions and should not be used on children under two or for more than seven days unless directed by a doctor.
A side-by-side comparison of Soov products
To highlight the differences in formulation and purpose, this table provides a clear comparison between Soov Cream and Soov It Ointment.
| Feature | Soov Cream | Soov It Ointment |
|---|---|---|
| Contains a Steroid? | No | Yes (Hydrocortisone) |
| Primary Purpose | General antiseptic and pain relief for minor wounds | Anti-inflammatory and anaesthetic relief for haemorrhoids |
| Active Ingredients | Lignocaine (anaesthetic), Cetrimide (antiseptic), Chlorhexidine (antiseptic) | Hydrocortisone (corticosteroid), Lignocaine (anaesthetic) |
| Uses | Cuts, grazes, minor burns, sunburn | Haemorrhoids, anorectal disorders |
| Primary Action | Numb pain and prevent infection | Reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain |
Why a steroid is used in one product and not the other
The choice of ingredients is based on the specific condition each product is designed to treat. Steroids like hydrocortisone are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that help reduce swelling and redness. They are appropriate for inflammatory conditions such as haemorrhoids but not typically necessary for common cuts and grazes where the primary concerns are pain and infection prevention.
For a regular wound, a combination of a local anaesthetic for pain (lignocaine) and antiseptics for infection control (cetrimide and chlorhexidine) is sufficient and safer for prolonged or frequent use on minor skin abrasions. Using a steroid on such minor, non-inflammatory issues is unnecessary and could potentially cause side effects associated with long-term steroid use.
Conclusion
In summary, whether a Soov product is a steroid cream depends entirely on the specific item. The widely available, general-purpose Soov Cream is a non-steroidal antiseptic and anaesthetic formula, whereas the targeted Soov It Ointment for haemorrhoids explicitly contains the steroid hydrocortisone. Always check the product label to confirm the ingredients and ensure you are using the correct formulation for your specific skin condition. Incorrect usage, especially applying a steroid-containing product to an unsuitable area or for an extended period, can lead to adverse effects. Always consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
This article provides general information and does not constitute medical advice. For a complete list of products and ingredients, visit the manufacturer's website.
