What is Hydrocortisone?
Hydrocortisone is a mild corticosteroid that helps treat angular cheilitis, a condition characterized by red patches that form at the corners of your mouth. The main cause is saliva buildup, which irritates and dries out the area. Without treatment, angular cheilitis can last several weeks. Using hydrocortisone can speed up the healing process, relieving symptoms within a week or two.
Hydrocortisone is used off-label (outside the FDA-approved uses) for angular cheilitis, and should only be used for this condition under the supervision of a physician.
How does Hydrocortisone work?
Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that reduces swelling. It works in two ways to reduce inflammation:
- Supporting the release of chemicals that combat inflammation
- Stopping molecules that cause inflammation from being released
This helps to calm and reduce fissures at the corners of your mouth, providing relief from pain, irritation, and swelling.[1]
Will I get side effects with Hydrocortisone?
Yes, you might get side effects while using Hydrocortisone, although not everyone will. Side effects may include:
- Irritation on the application site
- Redness
- Stretch marks
These side effects are typically mild and should subside after stopping treatment.
Is Hydrocortisone safe to apply to my face?
Typically, it’s best to avoid applying hydrocortisone to your face as this can cause skin thinning and irritation. So to stop this happening, only apply a small amount of cream to the corners of your mouth, avoiding other areas and your lips. If you accidentally apply it elsewhere, wash it off with water.
What doses of Hydrocortisone are there?
Hydrocortisone comes in two doses: 1% and 2.5%. The dose you’re prescribed depends on how severe your symptoms are.
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