What is cortical cream used for? Unpacking the benefits of topical hydrocortisone

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

Over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams are a common and effective treatment for minor skin irritations, with millions of tubes sold each year. Often referred to as cortical cream, this topical corticosteroid is primarily used to relieve symptoms like itching, redness, and swelling caused by a variety of inflammatory skin conditions.

Quick Summary

Cortical cream, typically containing the corticosteroid hydrocortisone, is used to treat skin inflammation, itching, and redness from conditions like eczema, psoriasis, insect bites, and poison ivy. It works by reducing the body's inflammatory response to calm affected skin.

Key Points

Term Clarification: 'Cortical cream' is a general term for topical hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid medication used for skin inflammation.
Primary Uses: It effectively relieves redness, itching, and swelling associated with eczema, psoriasis, insect bites, and poison ivy.
Mechanism of Action: Hydrocortisone works by calming the immune system's response in the skin, inhibiting inflammatory chemicals and narrowing blood vessels.
Application Best Practices: Apply a thin layer to affected skin and wash hands before and after. Use over-the-counter strengths sparingly and for a limited duration unless a doctor says otherwise.
Risk of Side Effects: Overuse or use on sensitive areas like the face can lead to side effects such as skin thinning, acne, and other irritations.
Prescription vs. OTC: Mild hydrocortisone creams are available without a prescription, while higher concentrations and more potent formulations require a doctor's order.

What is cortical cream?

"Cortical cream" is a non-technical term often used to describe topical hydrocortisone cream. Hydrocortisone is a type of corticosteroid, a class of steroid medicines that reduce inflammation. These creams come in various strengths, with weaker formulas available over-the-counter (OTC) and stronger concentrations requiring a prescription. Popular brand names for OTC hydrocortisone creams include Cortizone-10 and Cortaid.

Hydrocortisone works by mimicking the effects of the natural hormone cortisol, which helps to regulate the body's inflammatory and immune responses. When applied to the skin, it reduces the release of substances that cause swelling, redness, and itching.

Primary uses of cortical cream

Cortical cream is a versatile medication for many dermatological issues. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties make it a go-to for temporary relief from a range of skin conditions. The main uses include:

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Hydrocortisone is a first-line treatment for eczema flare-ups, helping to reduce the redness and intense itching that characterize this condition.
Psoriasis: For mild cases of psoriasis, especially on sensitive areas like the face or skin folds, hydrocortisone can help manage the inflammation and scaling.
Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac: After cleansing the affected area, applying a hydrocortisone cream can help relieve the severe itching caused by contact with these plants.
Insect Bites and Stings: The cream can quickly soothe the itching and reduce the swelling associated with mosquito bites, bee stings, and other minor insect bites.
Allergic Rashes (Contact Dermatitis): It is effective for rashes caused by allergic reactions to substances like jewelry, cosmetics, soaps, or detergents.
Seborrheic Dermatitis: For conditions like dandruff on the scalp or redness around the nose and eyebrows, topical hydrocortisone can provide relief.
Minor Skin Irritations: This includes general itchiness, chapped skin, and sunburn.

How does cortical cream work?

Topical hydrocortisone operates through a complex biological mechanism to reduce inflammation. Its primary mode of action is binding to glucocorticoid receptors located inside skin cells. This process triggers a chain of events that directly impact the inflammatory response:

Inhibition of Inflammatory Mediators: The activated steroid-receptor complex moves into the cell's nucleus, where it alters gene transcription. It upregulates anti-inflammatory genes and downregulates pro-inflammatory ones, ultimately inhibiting the production of chemical messengers like prostaglandins and leukotrienes that cause redness and swelling.
Stabilization of Cell Membranes: Hydrocortisone helps stabilize the lysosomal membranes of inflammatory cells, preventing them from releasing destructive enzymes into the surrounding tissue.
Vasoconstriction: It also causes blood vessels in the treated area to narrow, which helps to reduce redness and swelling.

How to apply cortical cream safely

Proper application is crucial for effectiveness and to minimize side effects. Follow these guidelines:

Wash and Dry: Always wash and dry your hands and the affected skin area before applying.
Thin Layer: Apply only a thin layer of cream to cover the irritated skin gently. Rub it in until it disappears.
Avoid Sensitive Areas: Unless directed by a doctor, avoid using the cream on the face, groin, or underarms, as skin in these areas is more sensitive and prone to side effects like thinning.
Limit Use: Over-the-counter versions should typically not be used for an extended period unless a doctor advises otherwise. Continuous, prolonged use can increase the risk of side effects.
No Occlusive Dressings: Do not cover the treated area with bandages, tight diapers, or other airtight dressings unless specifically told to by a healthcare provider. Occlusive dressings can increase the amount of medication absorbed through the skin, raising the risk of systemic side effects.

Side effects and precautions

While generally safe when used as directed, topical hydrocortisone can cause side effects, especially with long-term or excessive use. Common side effects at the application site include:

Burning, stinging, or irritation
Dryness
Acne-like bumps
Unwanted hair growth
Changes in skin color (lightening or darkening)

More serious, but less common, side effects can occur if a large amount of the medication is absorbed systemically, particularly with high-potency formulations or use over large areas. These can include adrenal suppression and slowed growth in children. It is important to talk to a doctor if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms.

Comparison of hydrocortisone cream strengths

| Feature | Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hydrocortisone | Prescription-Strength Hydrocortisone | | --- | --- | --- | | Available Strengths | Varies by product | Varies by product and may include more potent synthetic corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone valerate) | | Purpose | Temporary relief for minor skin irritations, allergies, bug bites, and rashes | Treating moderate to severe inflammatory skin conditions under medical supervision | | Application | Use according to package directions or as advised by a pharmacist | Dosage and duration are determined by a doctor based on the condition | | Risks | Lower risk of serious side effects with short-term, directed use | Higher risk of both local and systemic side effects, especially with prolonged or improper use | | Access | No prescription required | Requires a doctor's prescription |

Conclusion

Cortical cream, a term commonly referring to hydrocortisone cream, is an effective and widely available treatment for managing the symptoms of various inflammatory and itchy skin conditions. By reducing swelling, redness, and itching, it provides much-needed relief from common issues like eczema, insect bites, and poison ivy. However, its use should be approached with care. Always follow directions, avoid use on sensitive areas unless directed by a doctor, and never exceed the recommended treatment duration. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and a potentially stronger prescription.

For more information on topical hydrocortisone and its uses, you can consult sources like MedlinePlus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.(https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682793.html)

Frequently Asked Questions

Cortical cream, or topical hydrocortisone, is used for conditions like eczema, psoriasis, insect bites, allergic rashes (contact dermatitis), poison ivy, and other minor skin irritations that cause itching and inflammation.

Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream is generally for short-term use. If your condition does not improve or worsens, you should stop use and consult a doctor.

Low-potency hydrocortisone cream is generally considered safe for children, but it should be used with caution and only for a short period. Always follow a pediatrician's instructions, especially when applying to a child's diaper area.

Common side effects include burning, itching, dryness, acne-like breakouts, or irritation at the application site. Long-term or overuse can lead to more serious side effects like skin thinning or changes in skin color.

Using low-potency hydrocortisone on the face for a short period is generally considered safe, but it should be done with care and under a dermatologist's guidance, as facial skin is more sensitive. Do not use stronger prescription versions on the face without a doctor's specific instruction.

Cortizone-10 is a brand name for an over-the-counter cream that contains hydrocortisone, which is a type of cortical cream. While 'cortical cream' isn't a brand, it's a common way to refer to these hydrocortisone-based products.

Ointments are typically thicker and may be more moisturizing for dry, thick skin patches like those from psoriasis. Creams are generally lighter and better for inflamed or oozing skin. The best choice depends on your specific condition and skin type.