1% Hydrocortisone Anti Itch Skin Ointment
1% Hydrocortisone Anti Itch Skin Ointment
Product Description
Product overview
A maximum-strength 1% hydrocortisone anti-itch ointment uniquely formulated with soothing Aquaphor ingredients like petrolatum, panthenol, and glycerin. Clinically proven to deliver up to 12 hours of significant itch relief while helping irritated skin heal.
Immediate Itch Relief
Starts soothing and relieving itch immediately upon application with maximum-strength hydrocortisone.
Texture & feel
SENSORYImmediate Itch Relief
Starts soothing and relieving itch immediately upon application with maximum-strength hydrocortisone.
Protective Barrier
41% petrolatum base creates a semi-occlusive barrier that locks in moisture and protects irritated skin.
Healing Support
Contains panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) and glycerin to soothe and help skin heal while hydrating.
Gentle Formula
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free. Suitable for sensitive and irritated skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEGenerally considered safe for short-term use on small areas. Low systemic absorption. Consult healthcare provider for extended use or large areas.
Safe for short-term use on small areas away from breasts. Avoid applying near nipple area. Wash hands before nursing.
Petrolatum and mineral oil are generally safe (no fatty acids). However, lanolin alcohol may be problematic for some. Patch test recommended.
Rated 0-1 comedogenic. Petrolatum-based formula unlikely to clog pores despite occlusive nature.
Do not use for more than 7 days unless directed by a doctor. Not for use on face, groin, or armpits unless prescribed.
For adults and children 2 years and older. Do not use on children under 2 without consulting a doctor.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHydrocortisone 1%Active
A mild corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness, and itching by suppressing the release of inflammatory substances in the skin. Maximum OTC strength without prescription.
- Mechanism: Reduces inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins in skin
- Efficacy: Clinically proven for eczema, dermatitis, insect bites, and poison ivy
- Duration: Provides relief for up to 12 hours per application
Petrolatum ~41%Proven
The most effective occlusive agent known, forming a protective barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 99%. Creates ideal healing environment for damaged skin.
- Function: Forms semi-occlusive barrier while allowing oxygen transmission
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - Non-comedogenic
- Malassezia: Safe - contains no fatty acids that feed yeast
Mineral OilProven
Highly refined, purified oil that acts as an emollient and occlusive. Softens skin and helps lock in moisture without clogging pores.
- Function: Emollient and moisture barrier
- Comedogenic Rating: 0-1 - Very low
- Malassezia: Generally safe - no fatty acids
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)Proven
Converts to vitamin B5 in skin. Powerful humectant that attracts water, promotes wound healing, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - Non-comedogenic
- Irritancy: 0 - Non-irritating
- Benefits: Moisturizing, barrier repair, anti-inflammatory
GlycerinProven
Powerful humectant that draws water into the skin. Helps maintain skin barrier integrity and keeps skin cells in optimal condition.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - Non-comedogenic
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical ingredient
- Efficacy: Effective from 3% concentration, more benefits at higher levels
BisabololPromising
Active component derived from chamomile with proven anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Helps calm irritated skin.
- Source: Chamomile extract (approximately 30% bisabolol)
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, soothing, skin calming
9 ingredients
Active: Hydrocortisone 1%
Inactive: Petrolatum, Mineral Oil, Ceresin, Lanolin Alcohol, Panthenol, Glycerin, Bisabolol, Menthoxypropanediol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to affected areas up to 3-4 times daily. This is a treatment product, not a daily moisturizer. Use as needed for itch relief.
How to use
HOW TO USEClean the Area
Gently wash the affected area with mild soap and warm water. Pat completely dry with a clean towel.
Apply Thin Layer
Squeeze a small amount onto clean fingertip. Apply a thin layer to the affected area only, not surrounding healthy skin.
Gently Massage
Rub in gently until absorbed. The ointment will form a protective barrier that locks in moisture.
Repeat as Needed
Apply up to 3-4 times daily. Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days unless directed by a doctor.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis
- You need relief from insect bites or poison ivy
- You want a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula
- You prefer ointment over cream for occlusive protection
- You need temporary relief from minor skin irritations
- You want a dermatologist and pediatrician recommended product
Consider alternatives if:
- You need long-term daily treatment (beyond 7 days)
- You have a fungal skin infection (athlete's foot, ringworm)
- You need treatment for diaper rash
- Your child is under 2 years old
- You have broken, infected, or oozing skin
- You prefer lightweight, non-greasy textures
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPetrolatum-rich formula provides intense occlusion and locks in moisture. Perfect for very dry, cracked skin.
Rich ointment texture may feel heavy. Best used on specific affected areas only, not all over face.
Works well when applied to specific irritated areas. Avoid oily T-zone unless needed for treatment.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and paraben-free. Specifically formulated for irritated, sensitive skin.
#1 pediatrician recommended brand for eczema. Clinically proven to relieve itch and support healing.
Results timeline
3-7 DAYSInstant Soothing
Ointment provides immediate cooling and soothing sensation upon application. Protective barrier begins forming.
90% feel immediate comfortItch Relief Begins
Hydrocortisone starts reducing inflammation and blocking itch signals. Noticeable reduction in urge to scratch.
85% report itch reductionPeak Relief
Full anti-inflammatory effect achieved. Redness and swelling visibly reduced. Skin protected by occlusive barrier.
80% experience significant reliefExtended Protection
Clinically proven to provide up to 12 hours of significant itch relief per application when used as directed.
Clinically proven durationHealing Progress
With consistent use, irritated skin shows visible improvement. Redness fades and skin barrier restores.
Most conditions improveRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven 12-hour itch relief
- Combines hydrocortisone with Aquaphor's healing ointment base
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist and pediatrician recommended
- Creates protective barrier while treating
- Works on eczema, bug bites, poison ivy, and more
- Two-in-one: itch relief + skin healing
- HSA/FSA eligible
Criticized
- Greasy/occlusive texture not for everyone
- Small tube sizes relative to price
- Limited to 7-day use without doctor guidance
- Not for use under age 2
- Contains lanolin alcohol (potential allergen for some)
- Premium price vs. generic hydrocortisone
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSame 1% hydrocortisone in petrolatum base. Water-resistant formula. Lacks Aquaphor's panthenol and bisabolol for added healing support.
Generic hydrocortisone 1% in simple petrolatum base. Effective for itch relief but lacks the enhanced Aquaphor healing formula.
Cream texture (not ointment). Contains ceramides for barrier repair. Better for those who prefer lighter, non-greasy feel.
Cream with colloidal oatmeal for soothing. Less occlusive than ointment. Good for those sensitive to petrolatum-heavy formulas.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEAquaphor 1% Hydrocortisone
Cortizone-10 Maximum Strength Ointment
Storage & shelf life
24 MONTHS24 months after opening when stored properly
Store at room temperature (68-77°F / 20-25°C). Keep away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze.
Squeeze tube with screw cap. Ensures hygienic dispensing and prevents contamination.
Yes - 1 oz and 2 oz tubes are under TSA liquid limits. Perfect for travel first aid kit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQTopical hydrocortisone 1% is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used in small amounts on limited areas for short periods. Very little medication is absorbed through the skin. However, consult your healthcare provider before use, especially for extended treatment or large areas. Avoid applying near breasts while breastfeeding and wash hands before nursing.
This product has a cautionary status for fungal acne. While petrolatum and mineral oil are generally safe (they contain no fatty acids that feed Malassezia), the formula contains lanolin alcohol which may be problematic for some. Additionally, using steroids can potentially suppress local immune response. If you have fungal acne, patch test first and use sparingly. Consider alternatives without lanolin derivatives.
It's best to avoid combining hydrocortisone with active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, or chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA). Apply this product to affected areas only and wait at least 10-15 minutes before applying other products. The occlusive ointment base may also affect absorption of other products. When treating irritation caused by actives, stop using the irritating product while using hydrocortisone.
This ointment is excellent for dry, very dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. The rich petrolatum base provides intense occlusion and moisture protection. It may feel too heavy for oily skin types, though it can still be used on specific affected areas. The hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula makes it ideal for sensitive and reactive skin.
You should feel immediate soothing upon application. Itch relief typically begins within 5-10 minutes, with full effect in 1-2 hours. The product provides clinically proven relief for up to 12 hours. Visible improvement in redness and irritation usually occurs within 1-3 days of consistent use. If no improvement after 7 days, consult a doctor.
Apply after cleansing and drying the affected area. This is a targeted treatment product, not a routine moisturizer. Apply only to irritated areas, then wait 10-15 minutes before applying other products if needed. Use up to 3-4 times daily as needed. In AM, apply sunscreen over treated areas if going outdoors.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0-1 and is unlikely to clog pores. Petrolatum, despite being occlusive, is non-comedogenic and sits on top of skin rather than penetrating pores. However, any occlusive product can potentially trap sweat and dead skin if used excessively. Apply only to affected areas and avoid using all over acne-prone areas.
The product has a shelf life of approximately 24 months after opening when stored properly at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight. Always check the expiration date on the packaging. Do not use if the product has changed color, consistency, or odor. The tube format helps maintain product integrity compared to jar packaging.
Verdict: Aquaphor 1% Hydrocortisone Itch Relief Ointment delivers on its promise of combining maximum-strength anti-itch relief with the trusted Aquaphor healing ointment formula. The clinically proven 12-hour relief, dermatologist recommendation, and added soothing ingredients like panthenol and bisabolol set it apart from basic hydrocortisone products. While the rich ointment texture may not suit everyone and the price is higher than generics, the quality and efficacy make it an excellent choice for eczema sufferers, those with insect bites, poison ivy, and anyone seeking premium itch relief. An essential addition to any first aid kit.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.