Hydrocortisone Cream Australia: Uses, Safety & Best Brands

What Is Hydrocortisone Cream?

Hydrocortisone cream is a mild topical corticosteroid that may help relieve itching, redness and inflammation from mild eczema, contact dermatitis, insect bites and similar skin irritations. In Australia, formulations up to 1% (such as DermAid and Sigmacort) are available without a prescription: the 0.5% strength on the shelf (Schedule 2) and the 1% strength as a pharmacist-only (Schedule 3) medicine. Apply a thin layer up to twice daily for no more than 7 days. Do not use on the face, groin, or broken or infected skin, or on children under 2 without GP advice. If symptoms don't improve within 7 days, see a GP.

In plainer terms, hydrocortisone is an anti-inflammatory medicine you apply directly to the skin. It works by calming the redness, swelling, itching and irritation at the site of application. Hydrocortisone is the weakest topical steroid available, which is exactly why it is considered safe enough for over-the-counter sale in Australia.

In Australia, hydrocortisone cream is available in two OTC strengths: 0.5% and 1%. The 0.5% strength can often be found on the shelf (unscheduled or Schedule 2), while the 1% strength is typically a pharmacist-only medicine (Schedule 3), meaning you need to ask at the pharmacy counter. Both are listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) through the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

What Does Hydrocortisone Cream Treat?

OTC hydrocortisone cream is approved in Australia for the temporary relief of minor skin irritations including:

• radio_button_uncheckedMild eczema (atopic dermatitis) — reduces the itchy, red, inflamed patches that characterise flare-ups.
• radio_button_uncheckedContact dermatitis — irritation caused by contact with soaps, detergents, plants, metals (e.g. nickel in jewellery), or cosmetics.
• radio_button_uncheckedInsect bites and stings — calms the swelling, redness, and itch from mosquito bites, ant bites, and bee stings.
• radio_button_uncheckedMild allergic rashes — localised itchy rashes from allergic reactions on the skin.
• radio_button_uncheckedMild psoriasis — can reduce scaling and redness in mild cases, though psoriasis often needs stronger treatment.
• radio_button_uncheckedNappy rash (non-infected) — sometimes recommended short-term under pharmacist or GP guidance for persistent nappy rash that has not responded to barrier creams.
• radio_button_uncheckedSunburn itch — can provide short-term relief of the inflammatory itch phase of mild sunburn.

Best Hydrocortisone Creams in Australia

How We Assessed

• radio_button_uncheckedActive ingredient strength: 0.5% vs 1% hydrocortisone and suitability for different uses.
• radio_button_uncheckedFormulation: Cream base, moisturising properties, fragrance-free status.
• radio_button_uncheckedValue for money: Price per gram at major Australian pharmacies.
• radio_button_uncheckedAccessibility: Whether it is on the shelf or requires pharmacist consultation.
• radio_button_uncheckedTGA listing: All recommended products are listed on the ARTG.

Best Overall: Sigmacort Hydrocortisone 1%

Sigmacort is Australia's most widely recognised OTC hydrocortisone cream. The 1% strength may help relieve the itching and inflammation of mild eczema, dermatitis and insect bites, and is available at all major pharmacies. It is a pharmacist-only medicine (Schedule 3), so you will need to ask at the counter — the pharmacist will check it is appropriate for your situation.

Best for Sensitive Skin: DermAid Soft 0.5%

DermAid Soft uses a gentler 0.5% concentration in a moisturising base designed for sensitive and delicate skin. The lower strength makes it a better starting point if you are unsure how your skin will react to a topical steroid, or for thinner-skinned areas like the inner arms. If you need to treat the face or neck, ask your pharmacist first — these areas absorb more steroid and need extra care. Often available on the shelf without needing to ask the pharmacist.

Best for Insect Bites: DermAid 1%

When a mosquito bite or ant sting is driving you mad, the full 1% strength may help calm the itch. DermAid 1% is a well-known alternative to Sigmacort with the same active strength. Apply a thin layer to the bite area up to twice daily. For most insect bites, 2-3 days of use is enough.

Best Budget: Chemists' Own Hydrocortisone 1%

Generic hydrocortisone contains exactly the same active ingredient at the same concentration as branded products. Chemists' Own Hydrocortisone 1% typically costs $2-3 less per tube than Sigmacort or DermAid. If you are using hydrocortisone regularly for recurring eczema flare-ups, the savings add up. Ask your pharmacist for the Chemists' Own or pharmacy-brand version.

Hydrocortisone Cream Comparison

Sigmacort vs DermAid: Which Should You Choose?

Sigmacort and DermAid are the two best-known hydrocortisone brands in Australian pharmacies, and shoppers often ask which is better. The honest answer: at the same strength, the active ingredient (hydrocortisone) is identical, so there is no meaningful difference in how well they work. The differences come down to formulation, range and price.

• radio_button_uncheckedActive ingredient: Both contain hydrocortisone. At 1% they are pharmacologically equivalent — neither is 'stronger' than the other.
• radio_button_uncheckedRange: DermAid (made by Ego Pharmaceuticals) offers more options, including DermAid 0.5%, DermAid 1%, and DermAid Soft 0.5% in a moisturising base for sensitive or delicate skin.
• radio_button_uncheckedFormulation: DermAid Soft is designed to feel gentler and more moisturising, which some people prefer for dry or sensitive skin. Sigmacort is a straightforward hydrocortisone cream.
• radio_button_uncheckedAvailability: Both are stocked at all major pharmacies. The 0.5% strengths are usually on the shelf (Schedule 2); the 1% strengths are pharmacist-only (Schedule 3).
• radio_button_uncheckedPrice: Prices are similar. If cost matters, a pharmacy own-brand or generic 1% hydrocortisone is usually the cheapest and works just as well.

What About Hydrozole? (Hydrocortisone + Antifungal)

Hydrozole is a combination cream that pairs hydrocortisone 1% with the antifungal clotrimazole. It is designed for skin problems where inflammation and a fungal infection occur together — for example, an inflamed fungal rash in a skin fold, or some cases of athlete's foot or jock itch where the area is also red and itchy. The antifungal targets the fungus while the hydrocortisone may help relieve the itch and inflammation.

How to Apply Hydrocortisone Cream Correctly

Applying the right amount matters. Too much increases the risk of side effects, while too little may not be effective. Dermatologists use the "fingertip unit" (FTU) system to guide application.

• radio_button_uncheckedOne fingertip unit (FTU) is a strip of cream squeezed from the tip to the first crease of an adult index finger — roughly 0.5g.
• radio_button_uncheckedOne FTU covers an area roughly the size of two adult flat hands.
• radio_button_uncheckedWash and dry the affected area before applying.
• radio_button_uncheckedApply a thin layer to the affected area only — do not spread it beyond the irritated skin.
• radio_button_uncheckedGently rub in until the cream disappears. Do not cover with bandages or dressings unless directed by a doctor.
• radio_button_uncheckedApply once or twice daily as directed on the pack or by your pharmacist.
• radio_button_uncheckedWash your hands after application (unless your hands are the treated area).

Safety: How Long Can You Use Hydrocortisone Cream?

Hydrocortisone is the mildest topical corticosteroid, but it is still a steroid and must be used within safe limits. The key safety rules for OTC hydrocortisone in Australia are:

• radio_button_uncheckedDuration: Use OTC hydrocortisone for no more than 7 consecutive days. If your skin has not improved within 7 days, stop and see a GP rather than continuing to apply it.
• radio_button_uncheckedAmount: Apply a thin layer to the affected area only, up to twice daily. More is not better.
• radio_button_uncheckedDo not use on broken or infected skin.
• radio_button_uncheckedDo not use on large areas of the body at once.
• radio_button_uncheckedDo not use under occlusive dressings (e.g. cling wrap) unless directed by a doctor — this dramatically increases absorption.
• radio_button_uncheckedChildren: Use only under pharmacist or GP guidance. Do not use on children under 2 years without a doctor's advice.
• radio_button_uncheckedPregnancy and breastfeeding: Consult your GP or pharmacist before use. Small amounts on limited areas are generally considered low risk, but get professional advice tailored to your situation.

Where Should You Not Apply Hydrocortisone Cream?

Some areas of the body are thin-skinned, more absorbent, or prone to irritation, so OTC hydrocortisone should be avoided there unless a pharmacist or GP has specifically advised it. Do not apply hydrocortisone cream to:

• radio_button_uncheckedThe face — thin, absorbent skin; only use on the face if a pharmacist or GP advises it, and never near the eyes.
• radio_button_uncheckedAround or in the eyes (and the eyelids) — risk of eye side effects; never use eye-area products without medical advice.
• radio_button_uncheckedThe groin and genitals — skin folds absorb far more steroid and are prone to thinning.
• radio_button_uncheckedThe underarms (armpits) and other skin folds — same increased-absorption risk as the groin.
• radio_button_uncheckedBroken, cracked, weeping, or infected skin — hydrocortisone is for intact skin only.
• radio_button_uncheckedLarge areas of the body at once — keep treatment to small, localised patches.

When NOT to Use Hydrocortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone cream is not suitable for every skin problem. Using it on the wrong condition can make things worse. Do not use hydrocortisone on:

• radio_button_uncheckedInfected skin — bacterial, viral, or fungal infections (e.g. impetigo, tinea/ringworm, cold sores). Steroids suppress local immunity and can help infections spread.
• radio_button_uncheckedCold sores (herpes simplex) — hydrocortisone can worsen and spread the virus.
• radio_button_uncheckedAcne — topical steroids can trigger or worsen acne, and cause steroid-induced rosacea with prolonged facial use.
• radio_button_uncheckedRosacea — steroids initially improve redness but cause severe rebound flaring.
• radio_button_uncheckedFungal infections (tinea, athlete's foot, ringworm) — the itch may feel similar to eczema, but steroids help the fungus grow. Use an antifungal cream instead.
• radio_button_uncheckedOpen wounds, cuts, or grazes — hydrocortisone is for intact skin only.
• radio_button_uncheckedBurns (other than very mild sunburn) — seek medical advice for anything beyond minor sunburn.
• radio_button_uncheckedPerioral dermatitis (rash around the mouth) — often caused or worsened by topical steroids.

When to See a GP

OTC hydrocortisone is designed for mild, short-term skin irritation. See your GP if:

• radio_button_uncheckedYour skin condition has not improved after 7 days of hydrocortisone use.
• radio_button_uncheckedThe rash is spreading, getting worse, or developing signs of infection (pus, crusting, increasing pain, warmth, swelling).
• radio_button_uncheckedYou have recurring eczema that keeps flaring up — you may need a management plan with stronger treatments or allergy testing.
• radio_button_uncheckedThe affected area covers a large portion of your body.
• radio_button_uncheckedYou need to use hydrocortisone on a child under 2 years of age.
• radio_button_uncheckedYou are pregnant or breastfeeding and unsure about topical steroid safety.
• radio_button_uncheckedYou suspect the rash may be a fungal infection rather than eczema or dermatitis.
• radio_button_uncheckedYou have eczema on the face, eyelids, or genitals — these areas need careful medical supervision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy hydrocortisone cream over the counter in Australia?

Yes. Hydrocortisone 0.5% cream is usually available on the shelf at pharmacies (Schedule 2). Hydrocortisone 1% is a pharmacist-only medicine (Schedule 3) — you can buy it without a prescription, but you need to ask at the pharmacy counter, and the pharmacist will ask a few questions to make sure it is suitable for you. Neither strength requires a GP visit or prescription. Strengths above 1% are prescription-only.

What is the difference between 0.5% and 1% hydrocortisone cream?

The 1% strength contains twice the concentration of hydrocortisone. It tends to work better for mild eczema and more stubborn insect-bite reactions. The 0.5% is gentler and better suited to sensitive areas, milder irritation, or people who want to start with the lowest effective dose. For most adults with typical mild eczema or insect bites, the 1% strength is more likely to give satisfactory relief — but always start with the lowest strength that does the job.

Where should you not apply hydrocortisone cream?

Avoid the face, the skin around the eyes and the eyelids, the groin and genitals, and the underarms or other skin folds — these areas are thin-skinned or highly absorbent, which raises the risk of side effects like skin thinning. Also avoid any broken, cracked, weeping or infected skin, and don't treat large areas at once. Only use hydrocortisone on these areas if a pharmacist or GP has specifically advised it.

Is it safe to use hydrocortisone cream daily?

For short courses, applying a thin layer once or twice a day is normal — but OTC hydrocortisone is not meant for ongoing daily use. Limit it to no more than 7 consecutive days. Using a topical steroid daily over weeks or months, especially on the face or skin folds, can lead to skin thinning and rebound flare-ups when you stop. If you find you need it most days, that is a sign to see a GP for a proper management plan rather than continuing to self-treat.

What's the strongest steroid cream available over the counter in Australia?

Hydrocortisone 1% is the strongest topical steroid you can buy without a prescription in Australia, and it is a pharmacist-only (Schedule 3) medicine. Stronger topical corticosteroids — such as betamethasone (Diprosone, Eleuphrat), mometasone (Elocon), or hydrocortisone butyrate (Locoid) — all require a prescription from your GP. If 1% hydrocortisone isn't controlling your symptoms, see a doctor rather than trying to use more of it.

Is Sigmacort or DermAid better?

At the same strength, neither is better — both contain hydrocortisone as the active ingredient, so they work the same way. The DermAid range offers more choices, including DermAid Soft 0.5% in a moisturising base for sensitive skin. Sigmacort is a straightforward, widely stocked option. Choose based on which formulation suits your skin and on price; a pharmacy own-brand generic at the same strength works just as well and is often cheaper.

Can I use hydrocortisone cream on my child?

Hydrocortisone 0.5% can be used on children over 2 years for short periods under pharmacist guidance. Children have thinner skin and a higher surface-area-to-body-weight ratio, so they absorb proportionally more steroid. Do not use hydrocortisone on children under 2 without a doctor's advice. For children with recurring eczema, see a GP for a proper management plan including a moisturising routine and, if needed, prescription options.

Can I use hydrocortisone cream for nappy rash?

Hydrocortisone is sometimes used short-term (a few days) for persistent nappy rash that has not responded to barrier creams like zinc-based products (e.g. Sudocrem, Bepanthen). However, the nappy area is warm and moist, which increases steroid absorption. Only use hydrocortisone on nappy rash under the specific advice of a pharmacist or GP, and never for more than a few days. Also consider whether the rash could be fungal (candidal nappy rash), which needs antifungal treatment instead.

When should I see a GP instead?

See a GP if your skin hasn't improved after 7 days of hydrocortisone, if the rash is spreading or shows signs of infection (pus, crusting, increasing pain, warmth or swelling), if flare-ups keep coming back, or if the rash covers a large area. You should also see a GP before treating young children, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding and unsure, if you suspect a fungal infection rather than eczema, or if the problem is on the face, eyelids or genitals — these areas need careful medical supervision.